A MERE TWO weeks ago Shamrock Rovers seemed unassailable at the top of the Airtricity League Premier Division, but after one of the most dramatic weekends in recent memory the Hoops now sit in second.

Bohemians, now top, threw down a challenge to Rovers on Saturday in their lunchtime derby against St. Pats. The Gypsies won 1-0 thanks to a Rafael Cretaro goal in Inchicore, and Rovers went into their later match against Fingal knowing only a win would keep them top.

About two hours later in nearby Tallaght, and Rovers looked in a strong position at half time after Thomas Stewart scored on just 13 minutes. An inspired substitution by Fingal manager Liam Buckley (bringing Alan Kirby on for Colin Hawkins) was the catalyst for a Sporting revival.

A mislaid backpass from Aidan Price to Hoops ‘keeper Alan Mannus was seized upon by Gary O’Neill, who showed no respect for romance and dinked it over the helpless Northern Irish goalie.

With just minutes left, and the game seemingly set for a draw, the stage was set for an old Rovers nemesis to come back and haunt them. Glen Crowe popped up with the second in the quick Rovers double salvo- shooting from 15 yards out with seconds of regulation time remaining.

At the other end of the table, Drogheda United took the lead after four minutes in the relegation six pointer against Bray Wanderers through Yael Haro, but the Seagulls were able to equalise through Shane O’Neill before half time and the match remained deadlocked- leaving the Drogs marooned at the bottom of the table.