Second-half goals from Paddy Kavanagh and David Cassidy proved the difference in Tolka Park last night.

Roddy Collins’ charges had looked on course for a surprise victory when Willo McDonagh converted a 54th-minute penalty, but Shels hit back for a hard-earned triumph.

The hosts almost made the perfect start as Philly Hughes had a strike cleared off the line two minutes in by Monaghan defender Conor McMahon.

Hughes was always dangerous, but the home side took a surprise lead after Sean Byrne’s foul on Jordan Keegan allowed McDonagh to score from the spot.

Shels recovered as Kavanagh finished coolly after Cassidy’s miscued attempt had fallen into his path.

Cassidy was far more assured soon after, finishing past the onrushing Michael Schlingermann with a sublime lob which sealed the three points.

SHELBOURNE — Delany; Matthews, Shortall, Boyle, Byrne; Murphy (Sullivan 84), Cronin, Cassidy (Dawson 90), Kavanagh; Gorman, Hughes.

MONAGHAN UNITED — Schlingermann; Whelan (Reynor 21), Shaun Maher, McMahon, Collins; McGuinness (Bayly h-t), Stephen Maher, Ryan (Humphrey 76), Keegan; Murphy, McDonagh.

REF — G Kelly (Cork).

Irish Independent