Shamrock Rovers's survival charge gathered momentum last night as they made it four games unbeaten with a 1-0 victory over UCD at Dalymount Park.

Jason McGuinness's 49th minute header was enough to give the home team the points and, crucially, take them three points above Waterford and six ahead of bottom club, Finn Harps.

The result was unfair on UCD who created enough, particularly in the second half, to warrant a draw, though their Achilles' heel of failing to take their chances was once again evident.

Rovers struggled to create chances despite some enterprising play from wingers Trevor Molloy and Mark Quigley, who caused UCD some problems.

UCD goalkeeper Darren Quigley wasn't seriously tested until the 29th minute when he made a save to thwart Molloy after the winger had side-footed Quigley's cross towards goal.

Rovers's momentum was disrupted as they were temporarily reduced to 10 men while Marc Kenny had stitches inserted in a head wound.

But after eight minutes of treatment, Kenny almost returned in spectacular fashion on the stroke of half-time with a 25-yard free-kick that Quigley saved.

Four minutes into the second half, another set-piece led to the goal when Tony Sheridan's left wing corner was headed past Quigley by McGuinness.

UCD pushed forward looking for the equaliser with Robbie Martin heading narrowly wide in the 54th minute. Two minutes later, they were unlucky again with Murphy brilliantly saving Pat McWalter's close-range shot with Mark Rutherford clearing the striker's second effort off the line. But despite some late scares, Rovers survived to claim the three crucial points.

SHAMROCK ROVERS: Murphy; Shelley, McDonnell, McGuinness, Rutherford; Quigley, Tracey, Kenny, Molloy; Sheridan, Foley. Subs: Roche for Sheridan (61 mins).

UCD: Quigley; Mahon, Shorthall, McNally, McEniff; Hurley, McDonnell, Dicker, O'Donnell ; McWalter, Martin. Subs: Byrne for O'Donnell (57 mins), Gannon for Hurley (60 mins), Murphy for McEniff (84 mins).

Referee: I Stokes (Dublin).