 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.He made his Shelbourne debut during a League of Ireland Cup first-round tie on 24 March 2008 against Sporting Fingal at Morton Stadium, a match Shelbourne won 6–5 on penalties after a 2–2 draw after extra-time.