Longford’s hopes of promotion were dealt a major blow following a 2-14 to 12 points loss to Derry at Celtic Park in Division three of the Allianz Football League.
The result was never in doubt as Derry laid a solid foundation in the first half leading by 1-7 to three points at the interval.
Derry held the upper hand from the outset leading by five points to one at the first water break.
A pointed free by Darren Gallagher was Longford’s only score of the game at this point.
Rian Brady and Des Reynolds then halved the deficit with a point each before Derry responded in style hitting 1-2 without reply.
A goal from Patrick Kearney put seven points between them at half-time.
Longford enjoyed a brief resurgence in the early stages of the second-half and a 49th minute point from Joe Hagan made it a three-point game.
The hope was short-lived however as Derry substitute Paul Cassidy doubled the hosts’ advantage scoring the second goal of the game.
Darragh Doherty and Rian Brady then slotted over a point each and four points separated the sides with as many minutes of normal time left.
Padraic Davis side failed to score thereafter and Derry had eight points to spare at full-time.
