Dundalk 2-0 Drogheda United
Two goals in six first half minutes ensured Dundalk returned to winning ways - and keep on the coattails of Derry City in the process - as they claimed the 171st Louth Derby at Casey's Field.
United made the short trip up the M1 having won two of the three derby meetings in the Premier Division already this season. And Dundalk had suffered two shock defeats in league and cup before the international break.
Norwegian winger Runar Hauge's penalty came before Dane Massey's own goal in first half injury time. That put the game beyond the Drogs who never presented an obstacle to the hosts claiming a crucial three points.
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Stephen O'Donnell selected an unfamiliar line-up, including handing on-loan Hibs man Hauge a first league start. He was clumsily fouled by sub Dayle Rooney in the area and took the spot kick himself. The 21-year-old sent Nathan Shepperd the wrong way.
Rooney had replaced Evan Weir 10 minutes earlier. The left-wing back was stretchered off.
In first half injury time, a familiar face had Dundalk two goals up - but he was wearing claret and blue. In attempting to block Greg Sloggett's cross, Massey diverted past Colin McCabe at his near post.
The second half was lacking in goal opportunities for either side. Sub Dylan Grimes scooped over during a rare United attack. Their attacking substitutions couldn't help them back into a game. Dundalk were altogether comfortable.
A supporter took ill in the Shed End of the ground late in the second half, leading to a 10-minute stoppage as medical crews attended to the situation. The supporter was taken from the stand having received attention from Order of Malta personnel and club medics.
As the game neared its conclusion, Drogheda's Ryan Brennan received a straight red card from referee John McLoughlin following an off-the-ball incident. Keith Ward almost scored from inside his own half at the death but McCabe retreated sharply to tip over.
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