Derry clinch promotion by outclassing Clare

Paul Cassidy was among Derry's first-half scorers as the Oak Leafers led Clare 0-9 to 0-0 at half-time at Owenbeg

Derry secured their expected promotion to Division One of the Allianz Football League by outclassing Clare 0-14 to 0-4 at Owenbeg.

Pearse Lillis mercifully opened Clare's account in the 43rd minute.

But the pattern of Derry attacking after winning turnovers continued amid Clare's laboured forward play.

Derry's scorers were spread around with the energetic Ethan Doherty cutting inside from the left flank in trademark fashion to hit three points from play.

Shane McGuigan top-scored with 0-5 with Niall Loughlin, Conor Doherty, Conor Glass, Paul Cassidy, Benny Heron and Gareth McKinless also on target.

At one stage, it looked extremely doubtful that Clare were going to get on the scoresheet but after Lillis finally got them off the mark, Emmet McMahon (two) and Derek Coughlan added further scores from play in the closing 10 minutes.

An outbreak of hostilities involving several players following a late hit by Keelan Sexton seemed to stir the Banner men to better efforts in the closing stages but the outcome had long been decided.

Derry's victory maintains their 100% record in Division Two as they clinch promotion, with next weekend's game in Cork to spare.

The Oak Leafers will also be involved in the Division Two final with Dublin their likely opposition although Louth will remain in with a chance of clinching the second promotion spot if they beat Cork later on Sunday, which would give Mickey Harte's side a shot at denying the Dubs by earning a surprise win at Croke Park next weekend.

More to follow.