Dundalk FC 1-1 Sligo Rovers: Report

Dundalk were forced to settle for a point at Oriel Park on Friday night as Gareth McElroy's stoppage-time equaliser earned Sligo Rovers a 1-1 draw.

Having controlled much of the contest, the Lilywhites looked on course for all three points after captain Daryl Horgan fired them into the lead early in the second half. However, a late defensive error allowed the visitors to snatch a share of the spoils.

Ciarán Kilduff’s side started brightly and created a number of opportunities before the interval. Sam Sargeant was called into action to deny Ronan Teahan, Horgan and Cian Dillon, while Trevor Clarke came closest to breaking the deadlock when his powerful effort crashed off the crossbar.

Sligo’s best opening of the first half fell to Luke Pearce, who headed Jack Shorrock’s cross straight at Enda Minogue.

The visitors threatened shortly after the restart as Minogue tipped over from Shorrock before McElroy headed narrowly wide from the resulting corner. Dundalk responded well and took a deserved lead on 52 minutes. A move involving Clarke, Dillon and Harry Groome ended with Groome teeing up Horgan, who blasted an unstoppable finish high into the net.

Dundalk continued to press for a second goal and came close on a number of occasions. Dillon was denied by an outstanding save from Sargeant, while Teahan saw a fierce late strike brilliantly turned around the post.

The hosts appeared to be heading for victory until the first minute of added time when a cross into the box caused problems. The ball broke to McElroy, who reacted quickest to poke home from close range and earn Sligo a late point.

Dundalk: E. Minogue; B. Burns, M. Animasahun, R. Cornwall, R. Teahan; A. Dervin, K. Buckley (L. Gaxha 71); T. Clarke (D. McDaid 71), H. Groome (T. Grivosti 63), D. Horgan; C. Dillon (E. Vassenin 87).

Sligo Rovers: S. Sargeant; J. Esua, O. Denham, G. McElroy, S. Stewart (K. McDonagh 81); L. Pearce (S. Quirk 36), C. McHugh, J. McManus (D. Patton 63), J. Shorrock (T. George 63); C. Kavanagh, J. McGonigle.

Referee: Neil Doyle.