KAREEM RISES TO THE TOP

Striker's stunner helps Drogs go clear of champs

- BY BARRY LANDY

DARE KAREEM scored a first half stunner to send Drogheda United on their way to a huge victory over reigning champions Shelburne.

The Drogs were without a league win in four games but they managed to inflict a first league defeat on Joey O'Brien as Shels boss.

It will hurt it's a result that leaves the Reds with it all to do now to ensure a return to Europe next season.

The sides began the evening level on 43 points with St Patrick's Athletic on the same tally too as the race for European qualification hots up.

They ended it with Drogheda's pursuit of a surprise European place re-energised - and Shels teetering on the brink.

Evan Caffrey's own goal sealed the result and Harry Wood's late goal meant nothing in the end.