UCD need a maximum of two wins to seal the First Division title following Cabo win

UCD need a maximum of just six points from their final four games to claim the First Division title and promotion back to the top tier after a four-year absence.

Goals from Gary O'Neill, Yoyo Mahdy and a brace from Jason McClelland saw the Students to a comfortable 4-1 victory over Cabinteely at the UCD Bowl.

Captain O'Neill gave College the lead from the spot after nine minutes but a spectacular goal from former Student Marty Waters brought Cabo back on terms.

Mahdy restored UCD's lead on the stroke of half time and McClelland struck twice after the break to ensure Collie O'Neill's side remain seven points clear at the top.

Finn Harps are now alone in second position following their 3-0 win over Wexford. Mikey Place's third goal in four games sent Harps on their way before Jesse Devers and Sam Todd made sure.

Drogheda United's hopes were all but dashed as they were held 2-2 at home to Galway United, which leaves them nine points behind UCD with only 12 left to play for.

Goals from Eoin McCormack and Conor Barry had Galway two up within half an hour, but Mark Doyle and Sean Brennan netted in six second-half minutes to salvage a point for Drogs.

Shelbourne joined Drogheda on 42 points as they eventually got the better of Cobh Ramblers, with a James English brace and one from Alan Byrne. Chris Hull had equalised early on for Cobh.

UCD now lead the way on 51 points (2.2 pointers per game), with second-placed Harps on 44 (1.91 per game) and both Drogheda and Shebourne each on 42 (1.82 per game).