Premier Division: Shamrock Rovers defeat Derry City 3-1 to leapfrog Candystripes

Shamrock Rovers leapfrogged Derry City into third position in the Premier Division table with a 3-1 win over the Candystripes at the Brandywell.

Greene dispatched the ball past Brian Maher on 56 minutes, then converted a measured finish soon after.

Towell found the net from six yards out but sub Pat Hoban scored with a first-time shot with three minutes remaining.

Will Patching made his 100th appearance for Derry City, who have yet to win back-to-back top flight games this season and have now won one of their last six matches.

The hosts passed up several chances in the first half, Paul McMullan firing wide and Adam O’Reilly drilling an effort off-target in the early stages.

Danny Mullen had the ball in the Rovers net but his attempt was ruled out for offside.

At the other end, Greene had an initial drive saved by Maher, with Ben Doherty clearing Towell’s subsequent strike at goal off the line.

Michael Duffy was twice denied by Leon Pohls, his second save at full length to push the ball round the post.

Before the interval, Mullen rifled a 25-yard piledriver against the post and the teams went in level.

Mullen shot over the bar after the break, before Greene’s double salvo and Towell’s goal put the visitors firmly in control.

Hoban’s late back-post finish was a mere consolation for Derry.