A hat-trick each from Vinny Sullivan and Tadgh Purcell saw Cork City overcome an early scare against Athlone Town to eventually run out emphatic winners in this FAI Ford Cup second round tie at a balmy Turner’s Cross last night.

Joe Woods’ sublime chip 21 minutes from time sent Athlone Town level at the top of the Airtricity First Division table for 24 hours at least, leaving 10-man Mervue searching for their first point.