Ken Oman (left) is challenged by Drogheda goalscorer Guy Bates

Guy Bates hit the only goal from a 25-yard free-kick in the first minute as Derry's wall disintegrated.

Ken Oman missed a first-half chance but Drogheda were the better side.

Ciaran Martyn and Ruairdhi Higgins went close for Derry in the second half but Drogheda also had chances and the home side just about deserved their victory.

Despite going into the game eight points clear at the top of the table, Drogheda had failed to win in their previous four games.

However, any Drogheda jitters were eased by Bates' first-minute goal.

With the Derry wall failing to do its job, Bates' shot flew into the net off the left-hand post with goalkeeping Pat Jennings caught out of position.

Peter Hutton had a chance for Derry in the 23rd minute but his diving header went over the bar.

Jennings then had to react quickly to kick the ball clear as Eamon Zayed looked set to add to the Drogs lead.

Ken Oman should have tested Drogheda keeper Dan Connor instead of heading wide before the break but Jennings had a lucky escape at the other end as he was rescued by his defence after he had dropped a cross.

Richie Baker could have added to Drogheda's lead midway through the second half but a Derry defender got in a last-ditch block.

As Derry battled to get on terms, Ciaran Martyn fired a long-range effort inches over in the the 76th minute.

Right at the death, Ruairdhi Higgins' angled shot tested Dan Connor but the points were Drogheda as they continued their march towards the title.