Sammy Morrow shows his dejection after the final whistle

Derry City surrendered their second place in the League of Ireland Premier Division as they lost 1-0 to Drogheda United at the Brandywell on Friday.

Midfielder Brian King scored the only goal of the game for the visitors in the 87th minute, heading home a cross.

The Candystripes had dominated the second half but this defeat puts a major dent in their title aspirations.

Shamrock Rovers leapfrogged into second place as they won 2-1 at Bray Wanderers and are now two points ahead of Derry.

Bohemians extended their advantage at the top of the table to five points with a 2-0 victory at Dundalk.

For Drogheda, this success extended their unbeaten run to six matches.

Stephen Kenny's side were missing a number of players through injury and suspension but Mark Farren flashed a shot wide after just five minutes.

At the other end, Jamie Duffy's close-range header was well saved by Gerard Doherty and then Derry's Gareth McGlynn saw his 20-yard shot sail just wide.

Doherty tipped a Shane Barrett drive onto the post and Farren struck the woodwork with a header soon after.

Paul Skinner saved from Tam McManus' powerful header and Barrett went close for Drogheda as the game ebbed and flowed.

King grabbed the winner when he ghosted in front of Peter Hutton, before heading home from close range past a flat-footed Doherty.

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