With their nearest challengers apparently shying away from the chase, Shelbourne opened up a nine-point gap at the top of the Premier Division with their fifth successive win, at Tolka Park last night. As if determined to take full advantage of Bohemians' relinquishing the chance to narrow the gap to three points by refusing to play St Patrick's Athletic on Tuesday night, Shelbourne scored after 22 seconds, the fastest goal of the season.

It was a dispiriting start for an understrength Galway side. Owen Heary worked a one-two with Richie Baker, and when his crossed came back off a defender, Baker drilled in a fierce drive which deflected over David Forde off Ger Crossley.

Galway had to endure one or two scares before a dubious penalty award got them back into the game 10 minutes before the interval.

Crossley collected Bobby Ryan's throw and picked out Stephen Grant inside the area. The big striker appeared to make a meal of Pat Scully's merest of touches from behind to dive to the ground. He was promptly on his feet to blast home the spot kick.

Shelbourne restored their lead from an unlikely source. Dessie Baker's corner on 56 minutes deceived Forde who was adjudged to have caught it on the ground after it had crossed the line.

Galway continued to trouble the champions. However, a classic counter-attack sealed the win for Shelbourne on 65 minutes. Doolin's perfectly weighted ball over the top put Stephen Geoghegan through as Galway appealed for an offside. Geoghegan calmy lobbed Forde for a striker's finish.

Shelbourne: Williams; Heary, Scully, McCarthy, D Geoghegan; R Baker, Doolin, Fenlon, Hutchison; S Geoghegan, D Baker. Subs: Keddy for Hutchison (63 mins), John for McCarthy (68 mins).

Galway United: Forde; Crossley, O'Connor, Burke, Morgan; Ryan, Murphy, Fortune, O'Brien; Lavine, Grant. Subs: Keogh for Fortune (72 mins), Neary for Grant (77 mins), J Moran for O'Brien (90 mins).

Referee: J Stacey (Athlone).