Shamrock Rovers boss Michael O’Neill said that winning the Airtricity League of Ireland title “means everything.”
Rovers secured a nervy 2-2 draw against Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds on Friday night, the single point enough to the win The Hoops’ their first league title in 16 years.
The Tallaght-based giants triumphed on goal difference, following rivals Bohemians 3-1 win over Dundalk.
“It means everything, the reaction of the supporters after the game,” said O’Neill.
The manager admitted that his side failed to deal with the big occasion in positive fashion, adding that the clash with Bray was “was a difficult game for us mentally.”
He added: “There were nerves in our performance. I saw fear in the players’ eyes at half-time. We were aware of what was going on in Dalymount.
“At the end of the day, after 36 games we are top. It’s a reward for the long suffering people who stuck at the club in difficult.
“I’m delighted for the players. It’s something they’ll remember for a long, long time.”