A bizare second-half goal from Jess Lawler gave Wexford Youths a massive three points against Shelbourne this afternoon at Tolka Park.

The result means that Shelbourne’s lead at the top of the table is reduced to five points.

Shels started the better side in what was a scrappy first-half. 

Keeva Keenan had the game’s first effort after just 15 minutes but failed to find the target. 

Wexford goalkeeper Maeve William was kept busy in the opening 45 minutes making a good save at her near post early on and then denying Jessie Stapleton from a free-kick. 

The visitors looked off the pace in the first-half and offered up very little except a glancing header from Della Doherty late on and the two teams went into the break scoreless. 

Youths looked a lot more lively in the second-half and the tempers began to flare as the tackles flew in. 

Noelle Murray and Ciara Rossiter had a few choice words for one another in one altercation. 

 Keenan would come closest for the hosts again, but she was off the mark once more. 

Ellen Molloy spearheaded Wexford’s attack in the second-half but they still struggled to produce anything 

It would take a moment of misfortune for the opener to arrive. 

Jess Lawler chased after a pass back to Shels goalkeeper Amanda Budden and managed to block her clearance which was enough to send it rolling into an empty net and give Wexford the lead. 

Shels had a few chances late on but failed to hit teh target on several occasions. 

This afternoon’s result means that Shelbourne’s lead at the top of the table is cut down to just five points. 

Both sides are back in action after the international break as they look to continue their push for the title. 

Wexford host Galway, while Shels travel to Treaty United.