Double leg break for St Pat's duo

St Patrick's Athletic have confirmed that Gary Dempsey and Mark Leech will be out for at least three to four months after breaking their legs in Friday's 2-0 win over Dundalk at Richmond Park.

In a statement released today, the club said that midfielder Dempsey had a bad tear to ligaments on his ankle and sustained a broken fibula.

An operation involving corrective surgery was required and it is expected that Dempsey will not be back in action until July or August.

Striker Leech received a break just above his right ankle which also required surgery and he is expected to have a similar recovery period.

St Pat's club physio Mick Spillane revealed: 'In my 20 years of sports experience I have never encountered two lower leg breaks in the same game and from the same team, it is highly unusual and very unfortunate.'

The statement added: 'On behalf of both players, the club and staff would like to thank all supporters who enquired on their behalf and joins the fans in wishing Gary and Mark a successful and speedy recovery.'