City close the gap after hard fought win

Much of the game was played in monsoon like conditions and it was the visitors who were leading 2-1 at the break.

Patrick McEleney’s early strike was cancelled out by Ismahil Akinade, before Rory Patterson headed City back in front, seconds before the half-time whistle.

Patterson was at it again on 51 minutes coolly side footing home his 19th goal of the campaign from close range after Paddy Kavanagh had picked him out in the six yard box; unfortunately for the ex-Coleraine front man he headed into his own net to give Wanderers a life-line on 57 minutes, after City failed to deal with Kieran Marty Waters’ teasing left wing corner.

Both sides had half chances after Patterson’s own goal, but it was the Brandywell men who left the Carlisle Grounds with the points.

The victory combined with leaders St Patrick’s Athletic’s defeat at Dundalk means Derry going into the mid-season break sitting three points behind the Dubliners, but they have played a game less.

After the game a delighted Derry City boss Declan Devine spoke to Sentinel Sport’s Editor Kevin McLaughlin.