On a night of mixed emotions for the Baker family, it was Richie's Shelbourne who proved too good for Dessie's Longford at Flancare Park as the champions moved back to familiar ground - the top of the Eircom League Premier Division.

The visitors defended well, controlled midfield, and were clinical in front of goal.

Indeed, it didn't take them long to hit the front, just 13 minutes. The Dubliners were awarded a dubious free kick inside the Longford half. Dave Crawley floated in the kick and Jason Byrne connected superbly on the volley to fire the champions in front.

Richie Baker notched up goal number two for Pat Fenlon's charges nine minutes later. This time Byrne turned provider, sending in an excellent cross, which was brilliantly turned home by the unmarked Baker junior.

Town created a super chance themselves in the 25th minute when Dean Fitzgerald crossed for Andy Myler, who looked certain to score, but a superb stop from Steve Williams denied the home side.

Longford threw everything at Shelbourne early in the second half. Williams was at full stretch to deny Alan Kirby in the 57th minute. However, the home side just could not find a way through a well-marshalled defence in which Jamie Harris was outstanding.

Another good chance came Longford's way in the 82nd minute. Seán Prunty crossed for Kirby but the midfielder's header was turned around the post by Williams.

Fenlon spent the closing minutes of the game outside the perimeter of the pitch. after an altercation with fourth official Tony Kelly.

LONGFORD TOWN: O'Brien; O'Connor, Paisley, Ferguson, Dillon; Baker, Martin, Fitzgerald, Kirby; Myler, Barrett. Subs: Lavine for Myler (56 mins), Prunty for Baker (63 mins), Keegan for O'Connor (73 mins).

SHELBOURNE: Williams; Heary, Crawley, Rogers, Harris; Crawford, Hoolohan, S Byrne, Baker; O'Neill, J Byrne. Subs: Fitzpatrick for O'Neill (43 mins), Cahill for Hoolahan (66 mins), Cawley for Crawford (75 mins).

Referee: D Hancock (Dublin)