Monaghan United, who hadn't scored in four games, rediscovered their goal touch when beating leaders Athlone Town 3-1 at Gortakeegan to rekindle their own promotion ambitions.

Ken Lundy was Monaghan's inspiration, winning a penalty for Peter Rogers to score their first goal on 18th minute, before adding two goals himself in the 39th and 76th minutes.

Andy Myler got Athlone's consolation from a 38th minute penalty, his 20th goal of the season.

St Francis won for the first time in 19 games as they beat Cobh Ramblers 3-0 at Baldonnel to give manager John Noonan his first win.

Wayne Fitzell, Shane Doherty and John Chandler got the goals.