Danny Mandroiu netted twice to help Rovers secure a win over St Patrick's Athletic tonight.
Macdara Ferris reports from Tallaght Stadium
Champions Shamrock Rovers sent out a clear sign of intent of their desire to retain their title by beating second placed St Patrick’s Athletic 3-1 with a strong performance on Friday night. The victory - thanks to goals from Danny Mandroiu either side of a Pico Lopes header - moved them three points clear at the top of table with a game in hand over the Saints.
It was a tight enough affair in the first half which was unsurprising since the two teams came into the game level on points with only a gap of two in goal difference.