The woodwork twice saved Finn Harps in Ballybofey last night as Shamrock Rovers tore the home side to shreds but failed to convert the chances that came their way.
Rovers forced a string of fine saves from Harps goalkeeper Gareth Downey, who was first called into action in the 14th minute to palm away a shot from Sean Francis.
He saved again from Francis in the 43rd minute when he pushed his close range effort around the post. At the other end it also took a great stop from Tony O'Dowd to save a fierce drive from Alex Nesovic on the stroke of halftime. Rovers continued to dominate in the second half and Tony Grant's shot in the 54th minute was again well saved by Downey.
A minute later Derek McGrath hit the crossbar, and the woodwork rescued Harps again in the 72nd minute when Marc Kenny shot hit the post.
The visitors continued to have the best of the chances but in the end had to be content with a point when they could so easily have had all three.
FINN HARPS: Downey, Boyle, Minnock, Fitzhenry, Challender, Tierney, Kenny, McGrenaghan, O'Hanlon, Nesovic, Harkin. Sub: Kelly for O'Hanlon (62 mins).
SHAMROCK ROVERS: O'Dowd, Smith, Dunne, Deans, Palmer, Colwell, Tracey, Grant, Francis, Kenny, Byrne. Subs: Robinson for Francis (62 mins), Purdy for Kenny (80 mins). Referee: E Barr (Dublin)
Limerick made it four draws on the trot against Athlone Town in a scrappy First Division 0-0 game at Hogan Park.
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