Goalkeeper
Michael Schlingermann (Drogheda United) - The Drogs stopper made a number of excellent saves in the 1-1 draw with Cork City — tipping Ross Gaynor’s strike onto the crossbar and before keeping Karl Sheppard at bay.
Defenders
Ross Gaynor (Cork City) – The full-back wasn’t troubled much by Adam Whelan and Keith Treacy as the duo switched flanks in the opening hour. Going forward, Gaynor’s left foot delivery continues to be a key attacking outlet for John Caulfield’s men.
Anto Murphy (Bohemians) – The Gypsies had the versatile defender to thank for their opening goal, as Murphy struck past Conor O’Malley from outside the box in the first half.
David O’Connor (Shamrock Rovers) - Not a conventional left-back but O’Connor deputised in the position on Friday evening and largely nullified the threat of Dundalk’s potent forward line. More impressive, however, was his ability to spring forward and more often than not, his delivery caused a normally watertight defence problems. Injuries have plagued his season but Pat Fenlon now has another option with Luke Byrne also sidelined.
Midfield
Patrick McEleney (Derry City) – Making his return from injury the Derry City playmaker ran at the Bray defence at every opportunity. He was the main threat during a dominant first half for the home side. He lit up Brandywell with a stunning strike in the second half which put the game beyond doubt.
Conor McCormack (Derry City) – The midfielder was superb throughout and despite Bray flooding the midfield area he ran the show alongside Barry McNamee. The Co. Louth man has been instrumental in Derry’s revival in recent games.
Lee Lynch (Limerick) – Blues midfielder Lynch was a driving force and put in an outstanding performance as they picked up a 3-1 win over Galway United.
Ronan Finn (Dundalk) - On his return to Tallaght, Finn’s influence grew as proceedings wore on and when Dundalk needed someone to take a stranglehold in the middle of the park, he stood up. His incisive run in the first-half was the visitors’ brightest moment and he was heavily involved in much of Dundalk’s forward play when they pushed for the equaliser.
Mark Hughes (Drogheda United) – Up against a strong Cork midfield, Hughes was named alongside Robert Bayly and Mick Daly in a midfield that looked set to try and stifle the visitor’s attacking threat from that area. The 22-year-old has plenty of energy and was strong in the tackle as well as being the most likely to spring forward when the chance arose.
Forwards
Vinny Faherty (Limerick) – The Galway man bagged two goals against his former club with a man-of-the-match display on Friday night.
Anthony Elding (Sligo Rovers) – The journeyman striker headed home in the last minute of the game to snatch an equaliser for the Bit O’Red at the City Calling Stadium.
