Watch: World class McEleney strike downs Limerick at Oriel Park

Dundalk emerged victorious from the battle of the champions as the Lilywhites beat First Division title-holders Limerick 1-0 at Oriel Park on Friday night.

Jamie McGrath had an early chance for Dundalk that hit the side-netting before Limerick's Stephen Kenny saw his long-range drive flash just over after a poor clearance from home goalkeeper Gabriel Sava.

Kenny was again involved as his right-wing cross arrived on a metaphorical plate for Brazilian Rodrigo Tosi – he of the opening day hat-trick – but the striker couldn't connect with his diving header.

Paul O'Conor and Lee-J Lynch forced saves from Sava, but were made to pay for their lack of accuracy when Patrick McEleney broke the deadlock with a stunning 30-yard strike just after the half-hour.

Dundalk had a probably shout for a penalty in the second half as Limerick goalkeeper Freddy Hall pulled back Ciaran Kilduff, but it didn't matter in the end as the Lilywhites cruised to victory.

Read Niall Newberry's match report here, and watch highlights below via Soccer Republic.