Michael O'Neill's Rovers slip up

SHAMROCK Rovers described speculation that their manager Michael O'Neill could be a candidate for the Hibs vacancy as an "unwelcome distraction", and their discomfort increased last night when they lost 1-0 to their only remaining title challengers Bohemians.

Former Easter Road winger O'Neill is on the verge of guiding Rovers to their first Irish title in 16 years, but his side now face a test of nerve after seeing their lead at the top of the table slashed to a precarious two points after defeat to their Dublin rivals. Jason Byrne scored the only goal of the game after 21 minutes, to give Bohemians renewed hope of overhauling Shamrock for the title.

Before the game, Rovers chairman Jonathan Roache said: "It's understandable Michael is going to be linked with other jobs because he has done brilliantly for Shamrock. But we wouldn't appreciate interest from anyone. We are close to winning the league for the first time in 16 years and this is an unwelcome distraction.

Meanwhile, Bohemians host Celtic in a friendly this Sunday.