Bohemains 0-1 Shelbourne

Shels get the better of solid Bohs.

Shels defeated Bohemians 1-0 in this tough- tackling Dublin Derby thanks to a Stephen Geoghegan goal in the second half.

Although Shels dominated this game for periods, and created most of the game's chances, Bohs did have their moments and look a safe bet to steer clear of the relegation scrap. Jamie Harris, their gangly number ten, looked dangerous at times, particularly when he controlled a lofty ball forward on his shoulder and charged for goal early on. However, he squandered his chance and Owen Heary was able to clear. On the stroke of half time, Paul Byrne almost came back to haunt Shels once again when he hit a brilliant half volley, which struck the crossbar from outside the box.

Shels started brightly, and had chances as early as the seventh minute, when Richie Baker came close as an error in the Bohs defense allowed him a shoot at goal. Between them, Gary Haylock and Stephen Geoghegan had a myriad of chances before Geoghegan struck. The main reason for this was the performance of the Baker Brothers, Richie and Dessie, on the flanks. Fed with good balls from Carel Van Der Velden and Pat Fenlon in midfield, Dessie and Richie supplied numerous crosses for Geoghegan and Haylock to chase. Gary Haylock should have performed better in the aerial battles; he did not win many balls in the air against the Bohs defense, despite his obvious height and strength. We all know how dangerous Geoghegan can be when partnered with a player who is strong in the air, so hopefully it's just taking Haylock time to adjust to the pace of the game. Despite his meek performance, Haylock is saved from criticism by Geoghegan's goal. Receiving the ball deep in the Bohs half, Geoghegan attempted to feed the onrushing Pat Fenlon, but his pass went astray and was intercepted. However, the attempted clearance fell to the feet of Geoghegan, who was now well inside the Bohs box. Two years ago, one would have been marking the goal on the match program before Geoghegan had struck. Last year, there would have been less confidence and more hope. Geoghegan controlled and fired home low into the Bohs net. Stephen may not have the pace of 2 seasons ago, but the striker's hunger and eye for goal seem to be returning. As the season progresses, it's likely that his fitness will improve, and when Haylock finds his feet they will be a force to be reckoned with.

Shels: Williams; Heary; McCarthy; Scully; Declan Geoghegan; Dessie Baker; Van Der Velden; Fenlon (Doolin 73mins); Richie Baker; Haylock; Stephen Geoghegan.

Comment: Although it's difficult to welcome any rivals as tenants in Tolka Park, at least Bohs are only here for 4 games. Also, unlike Rovers, they seem a reasonable enough crowd, and are unlikely to beak seats.

I'm not quite sure when the Red Bull will return now...he has been promising to come back, but hasn't yet. Annoy him about it at redbull@ireland.com if you like.

Fintan O'Dowd '99