Bohemains - 0 Drogheda Utd - 1: Drogheda United made a perfect start to the league season at Dalymount Park last night.

Bohemians' Vinny Arkins went close after three minutes and Drogheda's Jason Gavin's 20-yard effort sailed over after five minutes. Drogheda hit the target deep in first-half injury-time when Glen Fitzpatrick pumped the ball to James Keddy, who was denied by Stephen O'Brien.

Immediately after the interval Drogheda almost edged in front following a mix-up in the Bohemians defence, but O'Brien cleared the danger. There was no reprieve on 52 minutes when O'Brien was caught out of position and Paul Keegan fired to an empty net.

Bohemians' defence almost leaked a second on 67 minutes. Barry Ferguson gave possession away on the edge of the penalty area but O'Brien came to rescue.

BOHEMIANS: O'Brien; Byrne, Ferguson, McGuinness, Rice; Hunt, Farrelly, Kelly (Harkin 67), Ward; Grant, Arkins (O'Keefe 81).

DROGHEDA UNITED: Connor; Lynch, Gartland, Gavin, Gray; Keegan, Fahey (Robinson 38 mins), Keddy, Shelly; Fitzpatrick (O'Brien 70), Barrett (Leech 83).

Referee: I Stokes (Dublin).