While Shelbourne have extended their lead at the top of the Premier division table to 10 points, Longford Town are beginning to lose touch and one thinks now their European aspirations rest on an extended cup run.

After taking a 10th-minute lead on Saturday night, the Double winners were made to fight for all three points against an unfortunate home side.

It was a quite spectacular strike that sent the Dubliners on their way. Dessie Baker received possession 30 yards from goal, skipped around Eric Smith and unleashed the quite exquisite effort which sailed into the top right-hand corner of Stephen O'Brien's net.

Longford had countless chances to get back on terms before the break. Niall Byrne grazed the lefthand upright with a 14th minute snapshot. Shay Zeller went closer. His 21st-minute strike came back off the post and a Smith effort could also have found the target for the home side. His long-range blast on the stroke of half-time just cleared the crossbar.

Shelbourne had their moments, too, with Richie Foran having two great chances either side of the break. In particular the second effort in the 51st minute should have extended the visitors' lead.

Stephen Grant should have wrapped up proceedings in the 84th minute, but he was denied by a quite superb save from O'Brien.

LONGFORD TOWN: O'Brien; Murphy, W Byrne, V Perth, Smith, McNally, Zeller, S Byrne, N Byrne, Prunty, Gavin. Subs: Farrell and Holt for N Byrne and Perth (75 mins); Kelly for Smith (82 mins).

SHELBOURNE: Williams, Heary, Geoghegan, McCarthy, Scully, D Baker, Fenlon, Doolin, R Baker, Keddy, Foran. Subs: Grant for Foran (59 mins); Byrne for Doolin (74 mins); John for R Baker (86 mins).

Referee: J Stacey (Athlone)