Drogheda United defeated Sligo Rovers by a goal to nil on Friday night at Weavers Park in the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division.

The defeat means Rovers’ unbeaten start to the season is now over with Adam Foley’s goal shortly after the hour mark enough to give them all three points.

The game started at a frantic pace with both sides attacking at every opportunity.

Eanna Clancy picked up an early yellow card for a foul on Darragh Markey and the Drogs had a series of corners well dealt with by the Bit O’ Red defence.

Nando Pijnaker had a header which went close from Kailin Barlow’s free-kick and Barlow had the chance of the game on 37 minutes after good work on the left from Will Fitzgerald and Reece Hutchinson, with the latter’s cross finding Barlow who shot straight at Colin McCabe from eight yards.

The sides were scoreless at half-time.

The game continued at a fast pace in the second half and the hosts almost scored through defender Adegboyega who’s header was saved by Luke McNicholas from point blank range.

The hosts did take the lead on the hour mark when Dayle Rooney’s cross was brilliantly volleyed to the net by Adam Foley to give his side the lead.

Soon after, Rovers substitute Fabrice Hartmann broke through midfield and was fouled as he headed toward the penalty area by Adegboyega. The referee pointed to the penalty spot, however the linesman called him over and the decision was changed to a free-kick. The Drogheda defender was booked for the foul.

Hartmann took the free kick and his effort was agonisingly close, smashing the crossbar and bouncing down on the line before being cleared away.

Rovers tried to force a way through from there on in but it wasn’t to be and after six minutes of stoppage time, Adriano Reale’s whistle meant John Russell’s side were defeated.

The next game takes place on Monday night at home to St. Patrick’s Athletic at The Showgrounds.