A 67th-minute try from impressive prop Les Hogan sealed an important win for Mick Galwey's side against a game but limited St Mary's outfit. It was a timely victory for Shannon coming in the wake of an AIL defeat to Garryowen and a Munster Senior Cup reverse at the hands of Cork Con.

However, the Shannon faithful will appreciate that this young side needs to step up its performance level if they are to land yet another title.

Visitors St Mary's went in front in the fourth minute when Jonathan Sexton converted a penalty. It proved to be the visitors' only score of the match.

A penalty goal from man of the match Tadhg Bennett in the 28th minute saw the teams retire level, 3-3, at half-time.

Two further penalties from Bennett in the 45th and 62nd minutes helped the Limerick team into a 9-3 lead. And Hogan's try, following a sustained period of pressure on the St Mary's line, helped Shannon claim four precious league points.

SHANNON M Lawlor; D O'Donovan, Pat O'Connor, J Clogan, S Kelly; T Bennett, F McNamara; L Hogan, S Cronin, F Roche; D Ryan, F Walsh; A Meany, T McGann, D Quinlan Subs A Finn for O'Donovan, 60 mins; Phil O'Connor for A Meany, 69 mins; TJ Hickey for Cronin, K Griffen for Roche, both 76 mins

ST MARY'S COLLEGE J Norton; K O'Brien, S Grissing, K Douglas, R Doherty; J Sexton, M D'Arcy; C O'Byrne, M Duggan, R Sweeney; V Ryan, S Bradshaw; M Aboud, B Donohoe, P Nash Subs W Duggan for Aboud, 48 mins; G Logan for V Ryan, 51 mins; H Gervais for O'Brien, 64 mins; C McMahon for O'Byrne 76 mins Referee A McKay (IRFU)