Derry title hopes suffer blow with Drogheda defeat

Derry City's Premier Division title ambitions took a significant dent as they lost 2-1 away to Drogheda United at Weavers Park.

Frantz Pierrot's second-half double gave the hosts a two-goal lead as the Candystripes' struggles on the road continued.

Andy Quinn gave Derry a lifeline by turning Sean Robertson's cross into his own net.

However, City were unable to find an equaliser and now trail Shelbourne by four points with five games remaining.

Chances were few and far between in the first half but the game sprang into life after the break.

City sharpshooter Pat Hoban had a couple of headed efforts in the opening 45 minutes which were both routinely dealt with by Luke Dennison while at the other end Brian Maher was forced into a terrific save to deny Pierrot.

Ruaidhri Higgins’ side came into the game having won just four of their 15 league matches away from home this season.

This venue has proved tricky for many with Drogheda unbeaten on their own turf since May and the plucky hosts soon found themselves in front.

Douglas James-Taylor took advantage of Andre Wisdom's wayward pass shortly after the hour mark.

He split the Derry defence to put Pierrot through, and the Haitian curled the ball superbly beyond the oncoming Maher.

Less than 10 minutes later Ryan Brennan released James-Taylor and he drove inside before pulling the ball back for Pierrot to bundle the ball over the line.

On 83 minutes, Andy Quinn diverted Sean Robertson's left-footed cross into his own net, reviving Derry's hopes.

But on a night where the Drogs were the more threatening going forward they managed to see the game out to send Derry back to Foyleside without a share of the spoils.