Limerick snatch last minute winner to beat Derry City

Barry McNamee scored the equaliser for Derry City against Limerick

Derry City conceded a last minute goal and slipped to a 2-1 home defeat to Limerick in the Premier Division.

Rory Gaffney capitalised on a defensive blunder by Mark Timlin to score a 90th minute winner at the Brandywell.

Shane Duggan gave the visitors the lead on 58 minutes before Barry McNamee equalised for the FAI Cup finalists.

There was little at stake for either team, and the game looked to be heading for a draw before Timlin's mistake gifted Gaffney with an easy chance.

Sean Houston missed the only chance of a mediocre first half, which lacked any tempo or urgency.

Good link-up play between McNamee and Duffy opened Limerick up in the middle of the pitch and Houston tried to slide the ball past the Limerick goalkeeper Ali Abass, but dragged his shot badly wide after 22 minutes.

There was a real end of season feel to the first half, but Limerick made an energetic start to the second half and carved out several chances before taking a deserved lead on 58 minutes.

Gaffney was involved in the build up to the goal, his initial shot being blocked by Gallagher, and Shane Duggan was quickest to react and blasted the rebound home from close range.

Limerick's lead lasted just five minutes before Barry McNamee drew Derry level on 63 minutes.

Stephen Dooley showed good persistence to swing the ball into the box and the unmarked McNamee headed the ball into the net for his fifth goal of the season.

Dooley had a shot blocked in the 78th minute and with both sides pushing for a winner, Gaffney's free kick was parried by Gallagher.

Limerick snatched maximum points with Gaffney's strike in the last minute of normal time.

Timlin failed to clear the danger and Gaffney stroked the ball into the bottom corner, giving Gallagher no chance.

Derry have two league games remaining, including a final home game of the season against UCD next Friday night, before taking on St Pat's Athletic in the FAI Cup final on 2 November.