St Patrick's Athletic have moved up to second spot in the eircom Premier Division table, just one point behind leaders Shelbourne, with a 2-1 win over Bray Wanderers at Inchicore tonight. The Dublin side gained revenge over Wanderers for their Cup defeat last December but it was the away side that took the lead after just 18 minutes when Keith Doyle's free from the left was knocked down by Wesley Charles and Barry O'Connor guided the ball home from close range.
However, Pat's stuck to their task and it paid off in the 68th minute when Martin Russell converted from the penalty spot after substitute Michael Holt was taken down by Eddie Gormley. Six minutes later they scored the winner when Robbie Griffen released Ger McCarthy and he coolly lobbed the ball over the advancing keeper.
Meanwhile, in tonight's other Premier Division action Bohemians defeated relegated Monaghan United 3-0. Despite a brave fight against the mighty Dublin side, Monaghan enjoyed little luck at Dalymount Park. A Paul Byrne penalty on 34 minutes after Gary O'Neill was taken down by Ashley White separated the sides at the break with White being sent off for his trouble.
Monaghan fell two goals behind on 68 minutes after a fine solo effort from Tony Folan. A cruel night for Monaghan was completed when Mick Scully put through his own goal two minutes from time to give Bohemians a 3-0 victory.
In the First Division, Dublin City consolidated their position at the top of the table with a 2-1 win at Athlone Town. Town took the lead on 17 minutes with a freak goal as Gary Connaughton's goalkick was aided by a strong breeze into the back of the City net. However, two goals from Brendan Markey in the 43rd and 76th minutes secured all three points for Dublin City.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
