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Shelbourne manager Damien Duff said he couldn't be prouder of his players after an "outstanding" performance in their entertaining 0-0 draw away to St Patrick's Athletic at Richmond Park.

The reigning champions faced off against the side who led the league at kick-off, just over six months after their memorable showdown at Tolka Park, which ended in a 3-2 victory for St Pat's as the thrilling 2024 title race entered its crucial phase.

St Pat's, installed as one of the favourites early this season, largely dominated the ball in the first half but couldn't find a way through a well-organised Shels rearguard.

However, it was the away side who took charge as the game wore on, with Harry Wood and JJ Lunney influential in midfield, and Pat's keeper Joseph Anang forced into a couple of fine saves to maintain parity for the hosts.

After full-time, Duff exulted in the performance, in particular that of centre-half Lewis Temple.

"Whether it's good, bad or indifferent, it's a deserved point," Duff told RTÉ Sport afterwards.

"As the game wore on, there was only going to be one winner, certainly in the second half.

"I thought it was a really exciting game. You see nil-all, (you think) drab, nothing to it. But I thought it was a really enjoyable game.

"We started the game a bit apprehensive. Defended really well all night. With the ball, I thought we could have played better in the first half.

"But our confidence grew - and maybe grew off the back of defending well, bizarrely.

"We spoke about it at half-time. Make that first pass, that second pass and they'll be open. They were. And I thought we looked very dangerous in the second half.

"I have to say the Mipo one (save from Anang) took my breath away. It looked incredible. I'll have to see it