Adam O'Reilly's stoppage-time goal secured a 1-0 victory for Derry City over Galway United on Friday night. The win extends the Candystripes' unbeaten run in the Premier Division to five matches.
O'Reilly struck in the 45th minute, just as the first half was ending, to break the deadlock at the Brandywell. The goal proved decisive in a tightly contested match where clear chances were at a premium for both sides.
Derry City manager Ruaidhrí Higgins made three substitutions in quick succession around the 72nd minute, introducing James Clarke, Kévin Santos and Liam Boyce to see out the result. The changes helped the home side manage the game effectively in the closing stages.
The three points keep Derry City firmly in fifth place in the Premier Division, now on 38 points from 32 games. They remain 18 points behind league leaders St Patrick's Athletic but have built a useful cushion in the top half. Michael Duffy, the club's top scorer this season with 12 goals, started the match but was unable to add to his tally.
This result continues a positive spell of form for Higgins's team, who are now undefeated in their last five outings.
The team will now prepare for that clash with the league leaders, looking to close the gap at the top of the table.
