Stephen O’Flynn scored a hat-trick - the third goal right at the death - as leaders Shelbourne had to settle for a draw, though the result does move Dermot Keely's side three points clear at the top of the First Division table.

Shels started well and were in front on ten minutes when right-back David McGill cheekily fooled keeper Dave Ryan to beat him at his near post.

But O‘Flynn punished poor defending to have Limerick in front by half-time with strikes on 38 minutes and right on the blow of the break.

Substitute Anto Flood revitalised Shels and he levelled on 70 minutes with striker partner Peter Hynes putting them in front with the goal of the game ten minutes larer.

But with 90 minutes up on the clock, Shels’ appeal for handball were waved away as O’Flynn blasted home from 15 yards to earn Pat Scully's side a point.

Flood was sent off for Shels in stoppage time for dissent towards referee Sean Grant.