First Division round-up: Galway United take another leap towards title as play-off race heats up

Galway United’s procession to the First Division title is not slowing down as they moved 13 points clear of Waterford in the race for automatic promotion.

John Caulfield’s men turned in a four-star performance to easily defeat Longford Town at Eamonn Deacy Park by a 4-0 scoreline.

And their cause was aided significantly by Cobh Ramblers shock 1-0 win at home to Waterford.

But Galway had to look after themselves and they did – despite the best efforts of Longford.

Stephen Henderson’s side were level at the break but a second-half goal glut inspired the Tribesmen to victory.

David Hurley netted twice while Rob Slevin and Conor O’Keefe also got in on the act.

But at St Colman’s Park, Cobh’s stunning season continued as they defeated Waterford.

Galway United loanee Wilson Waweru scored the winner after the Blues had a late leveller chalked off - with the Rams moving up to 3rd.

Meanwhile, Bray Wanderers edged a 3-2 thriller at home to Kerry.

Darren Craven opened the scoring for the Seagulls before Leo Gaxha equalised for Billy Dennehy’s young side.

Ben Feeney struck on the stroke of half-time to give Ian Ryan’s charges an interval lead, while Chris Lyons netted in the 56^th minute to make it 3-1.

However, Cian Brosnan scored in the 87^th minute to set up a grandstand finish – but Bray held on for a valuable win.

Tommy Barrett’s Treaty United also secured a potentially priceless three points away to Athlone Town.

Enda Curran opened the scoring for Treaty in the first-half before Willie Armshaw netted in second half injury time to seal the deal late on.

Athlone dropped to fourth following their defeat, while Treaty stayed five points behind fifth-placed Bray Wanderers.

And at Finn Park, Wexford edged out Finn Harps with a slender 1-0 success.

Aaron Dobbs’ 64^th minute strike proved to be the difference between the two teams.