Dundalk have gone seven points clear at the top of the SSE Airtricity Premier Division with three matches to go.

The reigning champions defeated Longford Town 3-0 away and coupled with second placed Cork City losing 3-1 at St Patrick's Athletic, Dundalk are now on the verge of a three-in-a-row.

Christy Fagan opened the scoring against Cork, only for Alan Bennett to level.

But two goals in the final six minutes from Sam Verdon and Conan Byrne put a big dent in Cork's title aspirations.

Meanwhile, Dundalk eased past Longford thanks to goals from Dane Massey, David McMillan and Daryl Horgan.

 Dundalk's Dane Massey celebrates scoring the first goal of the game ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

Dundalk's David McMillan scores his sides second goal ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

Cork City's Alan Bennett dejected after the game ©INPHO/Gary Carr

St Patrick's Conan Byrne celebrates scoring a penalty ©INPHO/Gary Carr