 His breakthrough to Rovers' first team was at 19 years of age when he made his debut in a League of Ireland Cup tie against Drogheda United on 8 May 2007.His league debut came in the next game in Derry on 14 May 2007.Lawrence remained a regular fixture in the Rovers team during the 2007 season making a total of 16 appearances but with intense competition in Rovers defence for the 2008 season, Lawrence was loaned to rivals Shelbourne for the 2008 campaign to aid his development and to gain vital first team experience.