HOME FARM-Everton gave themselves every chance of playing in the Premier Division next season when they earned a deserved two goal cushion against Athlone Town in last night's promotion/relegation play off, first leg at Whitehall.

Liam Kelly was the Home Farm hero with a smashing second goal early in the second half. He was also the player fouled for the penalty which gave them the an early lead.

Home Farm scored after six minutes from the spot. Athlone goalkeeper Shane Curran punched a ball clear, but caught the in rushing Kelly in the head as he followed through. Referee Dick O'Hanlon awarded the penalty to the consternation of the Athlone players. Derek Gough sent Curran the wrong way.

Fight minutes after the penalty Athlone's veteran defender Barry Murphy cleared off the line from John Kelly, who also tested Curran with a crisp shot

Home Farm maintained their impetus in the early stages of the second half and got the crucial second goal on 51 minutes. Donal Golden was dispossessed by Eric O'Neill and he ran up the left to cross for Liam Kelly to side foot past Curran.