Late drama at Oriel Park sees Sligo rescue point against Dundalk

Late in stoppage time at Oriel Park, Gareth McElroy rose to meet a cross and headed the ball into the net, rescuing a point for Sligo Rovers against Dundalk and turning a looming defeat into a valuable draw for the visitors.

Captain Daryl Horgan opened the scoring early in the second half, delivering his 100th club goal and the 60th for the Lilywhites. His finish gave Dundalk the lead and raised expectations for the remainder of the match.

Despite dominating possession, the Louth men could not find a second goal. A late defensive error opened space for McElroy, whose header sealed the equaliser and left Dundalk frustrated as the match drew to a close.

Sligo entered the game still reeling from a late concession against Drogheda United six days earlier, a setback that added urgency to their performance. The point also marked new boss Darren Purse’s record of two points from as many matches in charge of Sligo Rovers.

The Bit O' Red remain bottom of the league table on goal difference, and the draw provides a much‑needed boost to their morale. Their position underscores the challenges they face this season.

For Dundalk, it was the fifth straight game in which they led but failed to win, dropping 26 points from winning positions – four more than Sligo have surrendered in total. The Lilywhites’ pattern of lost leads continues to haunt them.

The result should give Sligo a psychological lift ahead of next week’s away fixture against Derry City. Goalkeeper Sam Sargeant made several early saves, denying attempts from Ronan Teahan, Horgan and Cian Dillon, and later kept Sligo in the game with a point‑blank stop from a Dillon strike before the final minute drama.