Pats and Candystripes share the spoils

St Patricks Athletic 1 Derry City 1

A goalkeeping howler gifted Stephen McLaughlin a second half equaliser as Derry got the point that should earn them qualification for Europe next season.

Winger McLaughlin outfoxed Chris Bennion in the 73rd minute by sneaking in from his blind side to rob the ball the keeper had thrown on the ground to kick out, and shoot it into the unguarded net.

St. Pat's had led from the half hour mark when winger Sean O'Connor celebrated his 28th birthday by chipping Ger Doherty having been played in by David McMillan.

The result confirms St. Pat's finish fourth and they now look like needing Sligo Rovers to retain the FAI Ford Cup if they are to get a place in Europe.