Dundalk defeat Drogheda in Louth derby

A Runar Hauge penalty and a Dane Massey own goal proved decisive as Dundalk bounced back to winning ways with victory over neighbours Drogheda United in the Louth derby at Casey's Field.

Stephen O’Donnell’s side, who bowed out of the FAI Cup to First Division side Waterford in their last outing, hadn’t won in their previous four league matches, dating back to the 1-0 win away to Bohemians at Dalymount Park on 12 August.

However, two goals in quick succession before the break saw them get their bid for European qualification back on track as they opened up a five-point lead over fourth-placed St Patrick’s Athletic, who have a game in hand away to Shelbourne on Monday.

Kevin Doherty’s Drogheda had enjoyed the better opening to the game but Hauge’s penalty on 40 minutes was a turning point before Massey turned through his own net in stoppage time at the end of the first half to effectively decide the game.

The visitors started on top, with Dean Williams firing over in the opening 14 seconds before being denied what looked a certain goal in the eighth minute when Darragh Leahy blocked on the line after almost chesting the ball into his own net.

After losing Evan Weir to injury, Drogheda went close again on 35 minutes when a short corner routine saw Darragh Markey pick out Williams at the back post only for the striker to volley into the side-netting.

Dundalk then took the lead against the run of play five minutes later when Hauge slotted home a penalty after being fouled in the box by Dayle Rooney.

The home side then doubled their lead in fortuitous fashion in the first minute of stoppage time when Greg Sloggett’s drilled cross from the came off Lilywhite legend Massey to creep past Colin McCabe at his near post.

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