Lee Grace saw Derry City deny Shamrock Rovers victory after peno controversy on pivotal League of Ireland night

Shamrock Rovers boss Stephen Bradley was scathing in his criticism of referee Damien MacGraith, labelling him “the worst in the league” after a controversial late penalty decision cost the Hoops three precious points at Derry City last night.

The League of Ireland title race has been blown wide open after penalty controversy between Derry City and Shamrock Rovers.

A high ball over the top of the Derry defence saw Johnny Kenny race forward and his low pass into the path of Dylan Watts saw the midfielder squeeze a low curling shot inside Brian Maher’s left upright. It was a superb finish.

Following a period of Rovers possession, the all-important goal came in the 84th minute when substitute Johnny Kenny chased a long ball in behind the United backline as Garry Buckley’s attempted clearance looped over Brendan Clarke and into the goal.

Derry City secured a crucial point over rivals Shamrock Rovers in Friday’s League of Ireland Premier Division clash.

STEPHEN BRADLEY fumed over the penalty decision which may have derailed their five-in-a-row bid as Ruaidhri Higgins hit back over criticism of Patrick McEleney. Shamrock Rovers looked to be

Shamrock Rovers boss Stephen Bradley tore into match referee Damien McGraith after a controversial penalty saw his side slump to a draw against Derry City in the Premier Division. Rovers made the trip Foyleside knowing a win would move them to within a point of second-placed Derry,