Derry top of league after victory

Stephen Kenny's Derry side remained on course for the title

Derry City require a draw against Cork City next Friday at Turner's Cross to win the Eircom League after beating St Pat's 2-0 on Saturday evening.

The Candystripes exhibited a few nerves early on before Peter Hutton scrambled home the opening goal on 29 minutes.

Clive Delaney headed in the second goal six minutes later to delight the large crowd at the Brandywell.

Derry had little difficulty in holding on to their two-goal advantage and they missed chances to add to their lead.

The win moves Derry a point ahead of long-time leaders Cork going into Friday's title decider.

Hutton's struck the opening goal after Delaney had nodded a far-post corner back towards the danger zone.

Provider Delaney supplied for the finish for the second goal six minutes later with a cracking header from eight yards which went in off a post.