Champs have the measure of Derry

DUNDALK’S patience and determination reaped handsome dividends at the Brandywell, when goals on either side of half-time saw the champions earn a deserved victory. Derry didn’t play poorly, but it was Dundalk’s quality and experience with served them well when controlling this game for lengthy periods. Dundalk’s patience and determination was rewarded in the 37th minute. Michael Duffy skipped past the challenge of full back Conor McDermott and while his centre was headed clear by Ally Gilchrist, former Watford midfielder Sean Murray controlled the ball on his chest before volleying home. However, the visitors turned the game on its head when they were awarded a penalty in the 47th minute. Sean Gannon played the ball forward and when Pat Hoban raced in behind the home defence, he was clattered by the advancing Cherrie, who came off worst in the challenge, before the ref pointed to the spot. Unfortunately for Derry, Cherrie was forced off before the penalty, with youngster, Nathan Gartside, facing Hoban from 12 yards. The striker neatly tucked the ball home to double Dundalk’s lead. Dean Jarvis should have added a third in the 54th minute but he ballooned the ball over the crossbar.

DERRY CITY: Cherrie (Gartside, 51); McDermott, Cole, Toal, Coll (Delap, 55); Harkin, Sloggett; Gilchrist 6, McNamee, Junior; Parkhouse.

DUNDALK: Rodgers; Gannon, Gartland, Hoare, Massey; McGrath, Cleary, Murray, Duffy (90); Hoban 7, Kelly. Scorers: Murray 37, Hoban pen 52.

Referee: B Connolly (Dublin) 7.