Joseph Ndo had given Sligo Rovers the lead with Stephen McLaughlin getting the equaliser for Derry City. A fair result, but one that does little for either side in terms of the title race, as Derry stay top with Sligo in third.

It was Ndo who brought the game to life in the 15th minute as he received the ball on the right from Rafael Cretaro.

The former Cameroon international ghosted into the box, past two Derry defenders, before unleashing a long-range right-footed strike that left Derry keeper Gerard Doherty stranded.

Patrick McEleney had the first chance for the visitors in the 26th minute. He got sight of goal, but his shot was saved by Sligo keeper Brendan Clarke.

The turning point of the game came in the 41st minute. Richie Ryan played a great ball in for Eoin Doyle, but he was denied by Doherty.

The ball was played down the left-hand side to McLaughlin, who cut in past Cretaro, and his shot deflected up off Jason McGuinness and into the net.

Derry had the first scoring opportunity of the second half in the 59th minute. McLaughlin put in a cross which was dropped by Clarke. Eamon Zayed reacted quickest and his shot was cleared off the line by Gavin Peers.

Sligo went close in the 63rd minute. Ryan played in Aaron Greene who struck the ball well, but it was narrowly off target.

There was an emotional moment for Derry City fans in the 67th minute as Mark Farren made his return in the Derry colours when he replaced McEleney. He received a standing ovation from both sets of supporters.

Sligo dominated the last twenty minutes of the game in terms of possession, but had little to show for it.

They did have a chance of a winner in the 85th minute as Ryan played in Doyle, who was in on goal, but just as he was about to shoot he was blocked by Derry defender Stewart Greacen