The reds created the better chances, particularly in the first half, as Rovers rarely came close to getting a desperately needed second win of the season.

Wes Houlihan was Rovers' tormentor-in-chief as he carved out the best chance of the match on 26 minutes.

The Irish under-21 international sent three defenders the wrong way as he jinked into the box.

He then went around keeper Robbie Horgan only to see his shot cleared off the line by defender Graham O'Keeffe.