Finn Harps . . . 2

Athlone Town . . . 1

Finn Harps are back in play-off contention after they saw off the challenge of Athlone Town at Finn Park on Friday night.

The win – coupled with Treaty United’s 7-0 home trouncing by Dundalk means the gap between the Limerick club and Harps is down to four points.

Treaty currently occupy the last of the play-off spots but they come to Ballybofey next Friday night knowing that defeat to Harps would leave Kevin McHugh’s side just a point behind.

Friday night’s win over Athlone Town was built on another impressive display from Harps. They went in front on 28 minutes when Conor Tourish headed in from a Gavin McAteer corner.

Both teams had chances in a lively first half. However, when Harps struck for a brilliant second on 68 through Hans Mpongo, they looked on their way to another win.

Athlone hit back when substitute Dean Williams scored with 12 minutes left.

But the sending off of midfielder Kelende Abdine Jr Thiam on 84 minutes for a second yellow card killed off any hopes of Athlone denying Harps a third win on the bounce.