Derry City are still in with an outside chance of League success

Arbitrator Michael Collins ruled that the Eircom League's original decision in relation to match should stand.

The League ruled that Bohemians should be deducted three points for playing a player while suspended in their league game against Shelbourne on 18 August.

Shels appealed the decision and the FAI ruled the game should be replayed.

The FAI Appeal Board ruled that as well as deducting three points off Bohemians the replay would be in the interest of fair play.

However, the Eircom League requested the FAI to refer the matter to arbitration and the senior council sat on Friday to look into the matter.

The arbitrator heard representations from the Eircom League, Shelbourne, Bohemians and the FAI Appeal Board.

However, Mr Collins ruled that the original decision relating to Bohemians in that they should be deducted three points, but rejected the decision to order a replay.

It means that both Shels and the Candystripes are level on top of the Eircom League with 59 points, each with one game remaining.

However, Shels have the better goal difference, and Derry's final game is a tough one against third-paced Cork City at the Brandywell on Friday night.