Forrester proves the difference as Saints beat Rovers

Chris Forrester's second-half header proved the difference as St Patrick’s Athletic beat Shamrock Rovers 1-0 at a jam-packed Richmond Park.

The Inchicore venue was near capacity long before kick-off in this highly anticipated encounter and the roof almost came off the main stand as Forrester rose highest to head home early in the second half.

Rovers had controlled the tempo in the first half, without capitalising, while their final efforts to save a point in the final stages lacked the required quality in and around the Saints penalty box.

A packed venue roared both sides into action from the opening whistle and it was the home side who took the initiative by taking the game to Rovers, playing with real intensity during those opening exchanges.

It took just three minutes to work their first effort on goal as Mark Doyle ran into space in from the left, however, he dragged his shot wide.

The former Drogheda man again went close a minute later following good play down the right and while the striker met the cross at the near post, he glanced just over.

Rory Gaffney conjured the first Rovers chance in the seventh minute as he managed to turn and shoot in the box, however, his deflected effort was easily accounted for.

It took a good 15 minutes for the game to really settle with both sides looking to get their passing game going, however, the home side were not helped by goalkeeper Joseph Anang who was not terribly comfortable with the ball at his feet, and had a habit of hooking his clearances out over the left touchline

In the 18th minute, Jack Byrne had his first look at goal as the space opened up outside the box. The Ireland international appeared intent on hitting the target, and while he worked Anang, the shot was tame and