Leitrim put a dent in Longford’s promotion hopes after an 11-point victory in Paric Sean.
Longford made the brighter start when Peter Lynn opened the scoring.
However, Leitrim soon settled. Two-pointers from Barry McNulty helped level matters before the contest began to open up.
The first major turning point arrived on 17 minutes when Gavin Reynolds gathered a direct delivery and rattled the net to give the hosts a crucial boost.
However, Longford responded strongly. Matthew Carey finishing emphatically for a goal after sustained pressure.
Leitrim continued to threaten from distance, with Keith Keegan converting a two-pointer and Cillian Gaffney accurate from placed balls.
Leitrim led 1-12 to 1-7 lead at half-time. Indeed, the hosts stretching their advantage through points from Conor Quinn, Fergal McLoughlin and Ryan O'Rourke after the restart.
Longford struggled to cope with high deliveries into the danger area. Their challenge was further dented when McNulty rifled home Leitrim’s second goal midway through the half.
Although, Longford briefly rallied, highlighted by a two-point effort from Dessie Reynolds and frees from Carey. Leitrim always looked capable of raising the tempo.
Any lingering hopes of a Longford comeback were extinguished late on when a high ball again caused problems in defence.
Gavin Reynolds landed his second goal and Leitrim’s third of the afternoon. Longford added a late consolation point through Oran Kenny, but the outcome was already decided as Leitrim closed out a deserved victory.
Leitrim winning out 3-19 to 1-14, sending the Division four promotion race to the final day.
