Shelbourne swoop past Bohemians to book FAI Cup semis spot

Goals from Jack Moylan and Sean Boyd earned Shelbourne a timely first win over their north Dublin rivals in five games this season and secure the prize of a first FAI Cup semi-final appearance in 10 years.

Beaten in a penalty shoot-out by St Patrick's Athletic in last year’s final, this Dublin derby defeat means managerless Bohemians’ season is all but over.

With Tolka Park drenched in September sun, it was the Shelbourne contingent in the full house of 3,600 who enjoyed a dominant first half by their side, the tone set despite a gilt-edged chance being wasted after five minutes.

Matty Smith and Shane Farrell combined well on the left for the latter’s cross to cause confusion in the visitors' defence. The ball dropped for Shels striker Boyd who was left holding his head in his hands as he blazed his volley over the top from scarcely six yards out.

Sloppy defending gifted Bohemians their only sight of goal in the first half six minute later.

Shane Griffin’s foul on Declan McDaid afforded Tyreke Wilson the opportunity from the resulting free kick which he flashed wide.

Despite the poor surface, Shelbourne comfortably edged the midfield tussle and soon carved another chance.

Gavin Molloy found Boyd in a pocket of space whose hurried shot was off target.

If some composure was lacking there, it was shown in abundance on 20 minutes when Shelbourne deservedly took the lead with a fine goal.

John Ross Wilson fed midfielder Moylan who worked a one-two with Smith to run into the area and rifle a stinging drive past Jon McCracken to the roof of the net.

The 21-year-old’s outstretched arms celebration in front of the Bohemians fans a gesture to his hurt at not being given a fair chance in his five years there under Keith Long.

The pity was