Ryan Brennan bags winner as Drogheda dump Sligo out of the FAI Cup

Ryan Brennan, a goalscorer the last time Drogheda United and Sligo Rovers met in the FAI Cup, was the matchwinner at Weavers Park as Kevin Doherty's team deservedly booked their place in the second round.

Ten years ago, these two sides contested the showpiece final at the Aviva Stadium, with Sligo running out late winners of a dramatic five-goal thriller. That game included two injury-time goals, scored by Brennan and Anthony Elding respectively.

The youngest Brennan brother began this game, a decade on, leading the line for Drogheda.

Elding’s 17-year-old son Owen took his place among the Sligo substitutes, awaiting a first appearance in this competition. His father hit three goals en route to the Bit O’Red’s 2013 success. There was no late intervention this time however.

Max Mata’s first-half penalty had been cancelled out by Adam Foley by the team Brennan struck from 12 yards himself.

Danny Lafferty was dismissed for a clash with Kyle Robinson in the area and once the spot-kick was converted, the game was up.

Doherty started the same XI that beat UCD a week ago, with his three summer signings – including newest arrival Luke Wade Slater – in reserve. Sligo replaced Will Fitzgerald with Estonian Frank Liivak.

The home side enjoyed the best of the first half, creating numerous chances against John Russell’s side but failing to make them count.

Both Dayle Rooney and Adam Foley threatened on more than one occasion, with Luke McNicholas twice called into action. Nando Pijnaker and, inadvertently, Conor Keeley blocked goalbound efforts.

Sligo hardly caused teenage goalkeeper Andrew Wogan a concern before David Dunne awarded the spot kick. Gary Deegan tripped Faroe Islands international Stefan Radosavljevic and Max Mata converted for