HIGH NOON

Rovers teen at double as league leaders win at a canter

- BY PAUL O'HEHIR

MICHAEL NOONAN was ice cool on the hottest day of the year, fuelling this sizzling success for Shamrock Rovers with a blistering brace.

The big wheel keeps on churning for the league leaders who pulverised bottom side Cork City to extend their lead at the top of the table to 11 points.

And a Rovers win on Monday away to arch enemies Bohemians - who dropped to third after losing in Waterford - would be a significant step for Stephen Bradley (right) towards the title. And all before anyone has kicked a ball in Europe.

Noonan was the catalyst for victory, with the teenager making it five goals in his last six appearances as the Hoops scored early and often to leave the Rebels reeling.

Noonan opened their account before Pico Lopes scored a second. Noonan got the third before half-time, and strike partner Rory Gaffney scored early in the second-half.

Noonan will grab the headlines but Gaffney’s role in this victory should not be overlooked either.