Cork and Waterford share the spoils in Munster derby

On a significant night in the League Of Ireland First Division title race, Cork City moved four points clear at the top of the table following a captivating Munster Derby clash against Waterford at Turners Cross.

In what was an electric start to proceedings, City showcased their intent early on.

Barry Coffey went close through a strike in the box which was saved impressively by Paul Martin in the Waterford goal while moments earlier, Ruairi Keating got a low shot away which was saved comfortably.

Waterford were reduced to 10 men with just eight minutes played on the clock, when Richard Taylor was shown a straight red for pulling down Cian Murphy on the edge of the box.

Cork threatened again just past the quarter-of-an-hour mark as after a header by Keating into his path, Murphy raced through but he blasted over the crossbar.

Waterford showed the attacking danger that they most certainly possess on 25 minutes. After a good driving run, Roland Idowu unleashed a strike around the edge of the box which was saved well by City goalkeeper David Harrington.

As the game went past the half-hour mark, City went close through a free-kick by Kevin O'Connor which went just wide.

City had another opportunity as Matt Healy unleashed another piledriver in first-half stoppage time which went straight into the hands of Martin.

The sides went in at the break with this contest still finely poised.

Waterford had an early second-half opportunity, but Wassim Aouachria headed over from a corner kick.

City went close in the 55th minute when Cian Bargary curled an effort just wide from the edge of the penalty area.

The home side went even closer a few minutes later when Ruairi Keating was unable to finish from a few yards out from a Bargary cross, while