Dundalk are now nine points clear at the top of the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division.

But they were made to work hard for it after coming out on top of a 4-3 thriller against Longford Town.

David McMillan had scored a hat-trick for Dundalk.

But goals from Lee Duffy, Noel Haverty and Rhys Gorman appeared to give  Longford a share of the spoils at Oriel Park.

However, Ciaran Kilduff's stoppage-time header saw the Lilywhites grab a last gasp win which now sees Stephen Kenny's side open up a commanding lead at the top of the table.

Dundalk's David McMillan celebrates scoring the first goal of the game ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

John Mountney of Dundalk with Daniel O'Reilly of Longford ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

Dundalk's David McMillan celebrates scoring his second goal of the game with Patrick McEleney ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

Dane Massey of Dundalk with Kealan Dillon of Longford
©INPHO/Donall Farmer