Bohemians 2 Waterford 2 : The downpour prior to this game may have kept some spectators away from Dalymount Park last night but Waterford spirits were undampened.

On a night when Colin Hawkins was stretchered from the field the southern team battled gamely to secure a hard-earned draw.

Hawkins's injury came at the end of a first half which Bohemians largely dominated. Having enjoyed the better possession the home side hit the front on 17 minutes.

The impressive Glen Crowe pounced from a corner on the right and drove the ball to the net.

Bohemians' Shay Kelly fumbled a right-wing free-kick and Kevin O'Brien's looping header found its way over the goalkeeper and into back of the net for Waterford's equaliser.

Until half-time Waterford United consolidated as Bohemians heads dropped somewhat.

Bohemians began the second half in much the same manner as the first.

Soaking up what little pressure they were under from Waterford United, they counter-attacked effectively on the break with Dave Morrison and Stephen Caffrey impressive in the midfield zone and Morrison's goal on 67 minutes was a superb overhead kick from inside the box.

However, displaying great determination, Waterford replied. A missed opportunity by Darryl Murphy seemed to have spurned their chance but after David Mulcahy's header glanced off the upright Murphy drilled home from close range.

Waterford earned a draw but it is Shelbourne manager Pat Fenlon who may have the broadest smile this morning.

BOHEMIANS: Kelly; Webb, Hunt, Hawkins, Caffrey, Morrison, Harkin, Crowe, Heary, Ward, Rice.

WATERFORD UNITED: Connor, Mulcahy, Waters, Reynolds, Breen, Purcell, O'Brien, Clifford, Murphy, Bruton, Quitongo.

Referee: J Feighery.