Bradley shrugs off pressure as Rovers retake league lead

Shamrock Rovers reclaimed the Premier Division lead after a dramatic 3‑2 comeback win over Waterford, a result that puts manager Stephen Bradley back on top of a tightly contested title race. The victory ended the champions' four‑match winless run and gave them a 24‑hour hold on the summit.

Rovers came from behind twice before sealing the 3‑2 win, their first triumph in four games. The result restored them to the top of the table at Tallaght Stadium, albeit for only 24 hours.

The win arrived as Bohemians snatched a last‑gasp victory over Drogheda and St Pat's overcame the Hoops the previous week, narrowing the significant crucial gap at the summit.

Substitute John McGovern scored both goals inside five minutes, a burst that snapped Waterford's 13‑game unbeaten streak and eased recent jitters around Rovers' form.

Bradley brushes off pressure

After the match, Bradley spoke to ’s Tony O’Donoghue and rejected any notion of pressure. “This isn’t pressure,” he said, adding that he feels only enjoyment and fun, and that other teams’ results are irrelevant to Rovers.

He stressed that the club’s biggest challenge is itself, insisting that if they do their business they need not worry about rivals. Bradley, who is chasing a sixth league title, praised the squad’s character, saying it is “in bucket loads” and essential for staying on top.

Coughlan acknowledges Rovers’ resilience

Waterford boss Graham Coughlan, who took charge from Jon Daly in early May, expressed disappointment at not holding onto a double lead. He nevertheless lauded Rovers’ resilience, calling their comeback “absolutely unbelievable” and crediting their bench players for turning the game.

The victory gave Shamrock Rovers the top spot for at least 24 hours, leaving the Premier Division title race finely poised.