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Mark McNulty saves from Raf Cretaro. ©INPHO/James Crombie
League of Ireland

Airtricity League wrap: Sligo keep title bid on track

Defeat for Waterford United in the First Division sees Limerick FC crowned champions and gain automatic promotion without kicking a ball.

SLIGO ROVERS MOVED a point closer to their first Airtricity League title since 1977 as they survived a few scares in a scoreless draw with Cork City on Friday evening.

Sligo keeper Gary Rogers had the Turner’s Cross woodwork to thank for his fifth clean sheet in seven games as only the width of the post prevented Kalen Spillane taking all three points for the hosts.

The defender looked to have given Cork the lead with a powerful header from Ian Turner’s corner in the 76th minute, but though he beat both Rogers and Joseph Ndo on the line, the post saved Sligo.

Shane Duggan spurned a chance to slow Sligo’s title charge in stoppage time but Ian Baraclough’s men can also point to chances they might have converted themselves, particularly in a first half which they dominated.

The result leaves Sligo six points clear of St Pat’s and seven clear of Drogheda United with three games left to play. The title could be decided as early as next Saturday night if the Bit O’Red take all three points when they host Pat’s in the Showgrounds.

Meanwhile, Killian Brennan scored only his second league goal for Shamrock Rovers as the Hoops ran out 3-1 winners against Bray Wanderers in the Carlisle Grounds.

Brennan’s brilliant free-kick opened the scoring in the 17th minute and Rovers doubled their advantage on 32 minutes when Ken Oman headed home from a Gary McCabe corner.

Kieran “Marty” Waters gave Bray a lifeline with a well-taken goal in the 56th minute but when Adam Mitchell was sent off 10 minutes from time, McCabe made no mistake from the resulting penalty and smashed it straight down the middle past Darren Quigley.

There was drama too in the First Division where Limerick FC secured the title and automatic promotion without kicking a ball.

Pat Scully’s men don’t play their penultimate match until tomorrow night but were crowned champions nonetheless as Mervue United beat second-placed Waterford United 2-1 at the RSC.

Wexford Youths beat Athlone Town 4-2 at Ferrycarraig Park and SD Galway won 2-0 against Finn Harps at Terryland Park.

Airtricity League results

Premier Division

  • Bray Wanderers 1-3 Shamrock Rovers
  • Cork City 0-0 Sligo Rovers

First Division

  • SD Galway 2-0 Finn Harps
  • Wexford Youths 4-2 Athlone Town
  • Waterford United 1-2 Mervue United

As it happened: Cork City v Sligo Rovers, Airtricity League

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