Goalkeeper
Brendan Clarke (St Patrick’s Athletic) – Last season’s Goalkeeper of the Year was solid on the opening night.
Defence
Ryan McBride (Derry City) - A man-of-the-match performance for the Candystripes at Tallaght Stadium on Sunday.
Sam Oji (Limerick) - The Limerick centre half was rock solid throughout – ensuring neither Byrne nor Akinade had a sniff.
Alan Byrne (Athlone Town) – Made it difficult for Sligo Rovers, and was a rock at centre-back for Mick Cooke’s team.
Midfield
Daire Doyle (Drogheda United) – A sprightly debut for the close season signing from Bray. He was composed on the ball and offered a dangerous outlet from wide areas, especially in the second half. Made Drogheda’s second.
John Russell (Sligo Rovers) – The midfielder worked tirelessly throughout the game, tackled well and was involved in both goals.
Greg Bolger (St Patrick’s Athletic) – Ran the show from midfielder for the reigning champions.
Paddy Kavanagh (Bohemians) – Scored a wonderful and was an ever-present creative outlet for Bohs.
Jake Kelly (Bray Wanderers) – The lively natured winger made the first half his own, creating both stand out chances and keeping the Blues’ backline on their toes.
Forwards
Declan O’Brien (Drogheda United) – Just when you think the time has come for the veteran striker to take a back seat for the Drogs, he shows his renowned predatory instinct in front of goal. His brace here sealed the game.
Dinny Corcoran (Bohemians) – Started ahead of veteran Jason Byrne and found the back of the net.
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