Goalkeeper
Ger Doherty (Derry City) - He may have conceded three goals against St Patrick’s Athletic but it could well have been double that had it not been for a number of excellent saves from the Candystripes goalkeeper.
Defence
Simon Madden (Shamrock Rovers) – Consistency is something any manager in any league wants, and Madden has played in all 15 league games this season. As usual he was solid from the right-back position, but his constant pace on the right side, along with some important tackles in the early stages gets him the nod.
Mick Daly (Drogheda United) – The Drogs captain spoiled Limerick’s Markets Field homecoming to head home the opening goal in a 2-1 win for the visitors. Also put in an assured performance in defence.
Derek Prendergast (Bohemians) – The centre half dominated aerially against the champions, winning most of his duels as Dundalk piled on the pressure in both halves. After losing his young central defensive partner Stephen Best early on, Prendergast was the glue that held the Bosh rearguard together late on.
Lorcan Fitzgerald (Bohemians) - Cleared a goalbound effort from Andy Boyle off the line and was also a threat from set-pieces down the other end.
Midfield
Billy Dennehy (Cork City) – Kerryman Dennehy was incredible for Cork on the night. He set up two goals and was unlucky not to score himself.
Dave O’Leary (Galway United) - Put in a stellar performance against his old club and it was clear he was out to prove a point. His passing and vision was superb.
Chris Forrester (St Patrick’s Athletic) – The talented midfielder was unusually quiet for much of the game but he quickly came to prominence in the final stages. Netted a wonderful individual goal at the death which wrapped up the game for the Saints as he beat three defenders before dinking the ball over Gerard Doherty from close range.
James Chambers (St Patrick’s Athletic) – The midfielder was superb throughout as St Pat’s dominated the centre of the park. He was a real danger in the final third and his free-kick which curled into the far corner of the net after the break sealed victory for the visitors.
Brandon Miele (Shamrock Rovers) - The youngster has shown plenty this season to suggest he has a bright future in the game, and bagging a brace and an assist against Sligo further enhances the belief that he has real star quality.
Forwards
Ismahil Akinade (Bohemians) – The striker made his League of Ireland return with a start at Oriel Park and impressed, running rings around Paddy Barratt and, at times, Andy Boyle. He created the first and won the penalty for the second. His all-round hold up play was exceptional.
