Shamrock Rovers delivered a dominant 4-0 victory over Sligo Rovers on Friday to strengthen their grip on the Premier Division summit. The win at Tallaght Stadium moves the Hoops three points clear of Bohemians with 65 points from 34 games, a key boost ahead of next week's trip to Dundalk. Their record now stands at 19 wins, eight draws and seven losses from those 34 matches, with a goal difference of plus 19 from 54 scored and 35 conceded.
Adam Brennan was the star of the show, netting twice in quick succession just before half-time. He opened the scoring in the 39th minute, finishing off a move created by John McGovern, and doubled the lead just two minutes later with Graham Burke providing the assist. Aaron Greene then made it 3-0 in the 71st minute before Dylan Watts completed the scoring in the 74th.
The home side's control was absolute, reflected in a 74% share of possession and 17 attempts on goal. The pressure told again in the second half as Aaron Greene, introduced from the bench, made it 3-0 in the 71st minute. Dylan Watts completed the rout three minutes later, capping a fluid team move.
Bradley's side have now won four of their last five league matches, a run of form that includes a 2-1 victory over title rivals Bohemians. Their recent form of four wins and one loss from the last five games also includes a 3-1 win over Drogheda United and a 3-2 victory over Waterford, though it was interrupted by a 2-0 loss to Galway United on 16 October. The Hoops won the last meeting between the sides 3-2 back in August.
With 54 goals scored this season, the league leaders have the most potent attack in the division. Top scorer Rory Gaffney, with nine goals in 27 appearances, was an unused substitute as the goals flowed from elsewhere. The comprehensive nature of this result sends a clear message to their challengers as the season enters its final phase.
Shamrock Rovers were confirmed as League of Ireland champions on Saturday, 24 October 2026, after their 4-0 win over Sligo Rovers. The club secured its sixth title in seven years when news of Shelbourne's equaliser against Bohemians filtered through late in the game. Manager Stephen Bradley acknowledged the crowd as a crowd of 8,023 celebrated at full-time. The confirmation means Rovers are now 1st in the Premier Division with 68 points from 35 games, six points clear of Bohemians.
Shamrock Rovers were crowned League of Ireland champions on Saturday, 24 October 2026. The club confirmed the title was secured after Bohemians failed to win at home to Shelbourne. The Hoops, who are 1st with 68 points from 35 games, sealed their sixth championship in seven years with a 4-0 victory over Sligo Rovers the previous night.
Shamrock Rovers' title celebrations were marked by a special return as Gary O'Neill made his first appearance of the season. The 31-year-old midfielder came on for the final 11 minutes of the 4-0 win over Sligo Rovers after a year away following a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Manager Stephen Bradley said, "He's been one of the most important signings." The club, now 1st with 68 points from 35 games, secured its sixth championship in seven years.
