St Pat's end Derry City's title hopes as four becomes two in Inchicore

Four became two in this title race for the ages but St Patrick's Athletic maintained their incredible winning run in Inchicore and are now in great shape to make European football again next season.

Brandon Kavanagh's blast a minute before the interval decided a game that will reign long in the memory – even if it will have no bearing, ultimately, on the title race, with Shelbourne doing the needful at home to Drogheda.

Now, only Shels or Shamrock Rovers can prevail at the summit – but it was not for the want of endeavour by the Camac.

Indeed, so impressive were Stephen Kenny's men in UEFA Conference League qualification combat this year, that platform is where they belong – but Derry can still ensure the same in 2025 by winning the FAI Cup.

Probability, permutations and prose were difficult to juggle as this frantic game was full of everything that makes the League of Ireland so special at the moment.

There was ample quality, no end of drama and a conclusion that ultimately will have both these sides wondering what they can achieve next season.

Derry deserved something but silverware can still be theirs in 2024, even if it will not be the league title.

Ex-Lincoln City youth Duncan Idehen made his first start for City, who have been especially badly hit with injuries of late, and Mark Connolly's suspension did not help matters, mere days after he was named in the Team of the Year.

Andre Wisdom, at left back and facing Zak Elbouzedi, was going to need all of his experience to compensate for a pace deficit; he did well. Up top, Patrick Hoban was not fit to start, but it was still a strong Derry side, with quality on the bench which they would surely need.

Wisdom was testing the wisdom of whistler Rob Hennessy – and his patience –