UCD 0 Longford Town 1: In what was a dress rehearsal for Sunday week's FAI Cup semi-final, Longford Town struck the first blow with Dessie Baker sending them on their way to victory at Belfield Park last night.
Rooted to the bottom of the table, Longford may be consigned to the drop but with a very vocal travelling support, the midlanders will be boosted by this victory as they attempt to reach their third FAI Cup final in five years at the same venue in just over a week's time.
Alan Mathews men had been on the back foot in the early stages with UCD defender Alan McNally heading straight at the goalkeeper on 10 minutes.
Town defender Damien Brennan was then forced to make an important challenge on Conor Sammon as the UCD striker bore down on goal.
And having weathered the storm, Longford went in front on 12 minutes when Baker, having picked up possession outside the area, chipped the goalkeeper.
Robbie Martin and Dave Mooney retired injured in the second half.
UCD: Quigley; Mahon, McNally, Kenna, Bermingham; C Byrne, McFaul (McDonnell, 58 mins), Finn, McWalter; Sammon, Hynes (Moran, 58 mins).
LONGFORD TOWN: Kelly; Sullivan, Doherty, Brennan, Prunty; Duffy (Ryan, 90 mins), Deegan, James, Martin (Rutherford, 78 mins); Mooney (Reilly, 80 mins), Baker.
Referee: D Tomney(Dublin).
Tomney retired injured and was replaced by fourth official P Whelan (Dublin) on 40 mins.
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