Dundalk have taken another decisive step towards another League of Ireland title.

After an emphatic 3-0 win over Longford Town at the City Calling Stadium, the Lilywhites are now seven points clear of title-rivals Cork City, who suffered a surprise defeat to St Pat’s at Richmond Park.

Goals from Dane Massey, David McMillan and Daryl Horgan helped Dundalk to a comfortable 3-0 win in Longford while Cork slipped to a 3-1 loss at Richmond Park.

Alan Bennett equalised after Christy Fagan had given Pat’s the lead. However late goals from Sam Verdon and Conan Byrne dealt a likely fatal blow to Cork’s hopes.

It means that Dundalk could secure their third consecutive league title by the end of the week as Cork face an immediate re-match against St Pat’s at Turners Cross on Friday before the Lilywhites could be crowned champions with a win over Bohemians at Oriel Park on Sunday.