Dundalk skipper Tom McNulty played a captain's role at the Brandywell on Saturday night when his timely 25-yard volley crashed into the Derry City net to continue Dundalk's impressive four-match unbeaten run.

The goal followed a deep Ray Campbell cross which was headed clear by Derry full-back Sean Hargan, but when the ball dropped perfectly into the path of McNulty, his right foot volley crashed high into the net.

But the story of the game surrounded the performance of match official, Eddie Barr, whose decisions saw him involved in a litany of confrontations with players from both sides. Two minutes before the goal, Derry winger Marty McCann appeared to be upended inside the area by Dundalk goalkeeper, Steve Williams. But Barr ruled out what appeared a justified penalty claim and booked McCann for diving. That decision incensed Paul Hegarty and the midfielder's name was also taken for vehemently protesting McCann's booking.

But worse was to follow in the 46th minute. Liam Coyle appeared to lose his footing inside the box and to everyone's amazement, the referee controversially pointed to the spot.

That decision fashioned furious protest from Dundalk but justice was seen to be served when Paul Curran's weak spot kick was parried by Williams before Eamon Doherty blasted the rebound recklessly over the crossbar.

Dundalk's tactics were clear from the outset, Jim McLaughlin's men getting behind the ball in great numbers, with Derry regularly caught offside during what proved a poor first half.

However, after the break the home side dominated the play and created enough chances to win the game comfortably.

Derry City: Platt; D Kelly, Curran, Hutton, Hargan; Doherty, Hegarty, Gauld, McCann; Coyle, McHugh. Subs: M Kelly for McCann (62 mins), McCaul for McHugh (77 mins), Gilmour for D Kelly (84 mins).

Dundalk: Williams; Reddish, Galloglaigh, Capper, Crawley; Brennan, McNulty, Thew, Campbell; Whithnell, Ward. Subs: Byrne for Withnell (59 mins), Harte for Brennan (72 mins).

Referee: E Barr (Dublin).