The league might be proving problematical for St Patrick's Athletic right now, but the League Cup is offering a more direct route to a semblance of glory. Jamie Harris' 59th-minute goal eased the Inchicore side into the semi-finals as they eliminated Waterford United in an engaging encounter last night.

The only down side for St Patrick's was the red-carding of manger Pat Dolan.

Dolan left the field some 15 minutes into the second half after an altercation with the fourth official.

A minute later his side were in front after Alan McNevin's through ball put Harris clear.

Waterford Utd: Mounty; O'Brien, Waters, Reynolds, Breen, D Whittle, Kirby, Cashin, Moroney, Scully, Rea. Subs: Whittle for O'Brien (53 mins), Watson for Cashin (63 mins), Bradley for Scully (71 mins).

St Patrick's Athletic: Kelly, Burke, Maguire, Foley, Osam, Crolly, McCarthy, McNevin, Griffin, Doyle, Harris. Sub: Byrne for Osam (71).

Referee: A O'Regan (Cork).