Two second half goals were enough to secure Finn Harps Premier Division survival as they beat north-west neighbours Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds on Saturday night. Determined Harps dominated the game from the start but had to wait until the 57th minute for the vital opening score.
Davey Dowling showed great anticipation to connect with Donal O'Brien's cross from the right and beat Nicky Brujos with a firm downward header.
Sligo rarely threatened to get back into contention and Harps made sure of three priceless points when Stewart Gauld converted a penalty in the 64th minute after Sligo defender Chris Curran had handled the ball inside the area.
Sligo offered little in the way of adventure and speculative shots by Donnagh Oates and Steve Jones either side of the break were the best they could muster.
Sligo Rovers: Brujos, Cobesson, Hutchison, Reid, Curran, Birks, Jones, Hallows, Thew, Oates, Rowlands. Sub: Kennedy for Hallows (71 mins).
Finn Harps: Byrne, Vaudequin, Minnock, Boyle, Callaghan, O'Brien, Mulligan, McGettigan, Speake, Dowling, Gauld. Subs: McGrenaghan for Mulligan(78 mins); Sheridan for Speake (87 mins); Bradley for Minnock(90 mins).
Referee: T Tully (Cork)
