Shamrock Rovers off to a winning start.

Last updated : 11 March 2006 By Gerry Ormonde

Eleven players made their competitive debut as a new-look Rovers began life in the unfamiliar territory of the eircom First Division.

It was the visitors, however, who started the brighter and took the lead in the 16th minute when striker Peter Hynes hit an unstoppable shot from 25 yards.

A disallowed goal, for a foul on Hoops keeper Barry Murphy, and a string of fine saves from the aforementioned shot-stopper prevented Dundalk from extending their lead as Rovers were happy to go in at half time still in the game.

Scully introduced Cathal O'Connor in the second half and it soon paid dividends as Rovers looked much more settled and started to come back into the game.

The home side eventually made their possession count in the 72nd minute when a scramble in the Dundalk area fell to Jamie Duffy who slid the ball home from the edge of the six-yard box.

Dundalk ran out of steam in the latter stages of the second half and finished the game with ten men, as they had used all three substitutes, when Derek Griffin went off injured.

The Hoops took the initiative and piled on the pressure in the closing stages and were rewarded in stoppage time when Willie Doyle blasted past Dundalk keeper Chris Bennion.

Elsewhere in the First Division, the offside tactics used by both sides resulted in a start of season stalement between Monaghan and Galway at Century Homes Park.

Galway, who had Eric Lavine and Rafael Cretaro in fine form, created the better chances.

Alan Murphy had the ball in Monaghan's net in the 57th minute, but it was ruled offside. A great save from Galway goalkeeper Alan Gough kept out an excellent shot from Monaghan striker Alan McNevin in the 63rd minute.

With 11 minutes left Galway sub' Derek O'Brien was clean through on goal but drove his shot perfect.

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