Bohemians did everything that was required of them in Flancare Park last night but victory against Longford Town may not be enough to push them towards league glory.
Last night's FAI Cup final dress rehearsal was a cracking game and there was no doubting Bohemians superiority throughout.
Longford, playing without several regulars, found the going tough against a full-strength Gypsies outfit.
Glen Crowe fired the visitors in front in the 17th minute. An excellent through ball from Mark Rutherford left Crowe in direct opposition to Longford goalkeeper Kevin McCormack as the striker fired home with the aid of the right post.
Dave Hill doubled Bohemians advantage just seven minutes later. Paul Byrne's corner was not dealt with sufficiently by the home defence as Hill fired home through a crowded goalmouth.
The homeside brought themselves back into contention after 33 minutes when Stephen Kelly was fouled just outside the penalty area by Tony O'Connor. Stuart Holt's free kick whizzed past goalkeeper Wayne Russell.
However, Bohemians made victory safe just 12 minutes after the break. Glen Crowe was brought down by McCormack and Trevor Molloy made no mistake with the penalty.
LONGFORD TOWN: McCormack, E Kenny, Coyle, Perth, Riordan, S Byrne, Kelly, Holt, O'Connor, Farrell, Gavin. Subs: Zeller for O'Connor 71, W Byrne for Holt 71, H Kelly for Farrell 76.
BOHEMIANS: Russell, O'Connor, Webb, Hunt, Maher, Hill, Byrne, Caffrey, Molloy, Crowe, Rutherford. Subs: Morrison for Hunt 49, Nesovic for Rutherford 69, O'Brien for O Connor 84.
Referee: D Hancock (Dublin).
Sligo boss Tommy Cassidy was furious with Limerick at Hogan Park last evening as his side lost ground in their push for promotion after a 2-0 defeat.
After eight minutes Sligo put the ball into touch after a Limerick player went down injured. Rather than surrender possession, Limerick retained the ball and Paul Harmon beat goalkeeper Dan O'Leary.
Limerick sealed the points in 56 minutes with a fine goal from Derek McCarthy.
