Dublin is red and black, as Bohemians claimed a 1-0 win in a record-breaking Dublin Derby.
The opening fixture for both teams saw a record 32,000 people show up at Lansdowne Road, as the Gypsies beat their traditional rivals Shamrock Rovers.
Right from the get-go, Bohs were in control. Aside from a couple of opportunities cleared off the line by Rob Cornwall, the Hoops never really got going.
Bohs finally made their superior possession count in the 26th minute, as Conor Parson’s shot was saved by Ed McGinty, bouncing off the post for Ross Tierney to tap home, sending the South Stand into a frenzy.
And it could’ve been two from winger Dayle Rooney 40 minutes in, but McGinty was equal to the Ballymun-man’s effort.
Rovers came out of their shell more often in the second half, with James Talbot not being left without work.
However, Rovers’ best opportunity would come in the 71st minute, as the Bohs defense was split open and Victor Ozhianvuna got on the end of Graham Burke’s low driven cross, however Liam Smith cleared, only for the ball to fall to Michael Noonan, but the former Dundee United man deployed his heroics from seconds previous.
The attendance of 33,208 was announced to rapturous applause from everyone in the stadium. It is a record which has stood for 79 years, going back to 1946 when Drumcondra played Cork United at Dalymount Park.
Despite a late push by Rovers, it was not enough and Bohs took the three points on a historic day for the league.
I’m giving my man of the match to Conor Parsons. He was outstanding. Set up the goal and gave the Rovers defence nightmares.
Bohs next travel to Derry this Friday whilst Shamrock Rovers welcome Cork City to Tallaght next Sunday.
For now though, it is fair to say that Dublin is red and black.