Derry City scored what may well prove a vital victory over local neighbours Finn Harps at the Brandywell last night to move clear of the relegation area. And it was a thoroughly deserved win for Kevin Mahon's men.

Derry's determination to get the ball forward at every opportunity was rewarded in the 41st minute. Defender Sean Hargan got the better of Declan Boyle in a challenge and when the ball broke free to Darren McCready, the 20 year old drove it home from the edge of the area.

The home side could not have asked for a better start to the second half, as, with the wind and rain in their favour, they doubled their lead within two minutes. A long punt from defence was headed forward by Michael McHugh and Gary Beckett raced onto the ball before finding the net from an acute angle.

Derry City: Platt, McCallion, Hutton, Kelly, Hargan, Moran, Doherty, McLaughlin, McCready, Beckett, McHugh. Subs: McCaul for McHugh (80 mins).

Finn Harps: McKenna, Vaudequin, Minnock, Boyle, Scanlon, Hutchinson, Kenny, Mulligan, Speak, Tierney, Harkin. Subs: McGrenaghan for Boyle (45 mins), Mohan for Harkin (57 mins), Sheridan for Scanlon (70 mins).

Referee: J McDermott (Dublin).