St Patrick's Athletic lost further ground on the leaders last night when a lethargic first-half performance allowed Bohemians leave Inchicore with full points.

Two goals in a three-minute spell in the first half and a cool finish from Derek Swan eight minutes from time saw Bohemians move three points ahead of the champions and left St Patrick's with a mountain to climb if they are to match last season's achievement.

Martin Russell's perfectly placed cross found Colin Hawkins unmarked at the far posts and his header sailed past Wayne Russell on 17 minutes.

However, two quick Bohemians goals turned the game around. The first, typified their performance. Gareth O'Connor won possession out wide and found Glen Crowe at the back post and the striker made no mistake from five yards.

Then, Graham O'Hanlon's half-volley which clipped Woods right-hand posts before nestling in the bottom left-hand corner made it 2-1.

Considering the influence of O'Hanlon, it was little surprise that St Patrick's re-emerged with Eddie Gormley in midfield.

However, despite St Parick's dominance it was veteran striker, Derek Swan, who put the result beyond doubt.

ST PATRICK'S ATHLETIC: Wood, Lynch, McGuinness, Broughan, Croly, Harte, Russell, Hawkins, Doyle, Kelly, Molloy. Subs: Gormley for Russell (half-time), Hallows for Kelly (59 mins), McNevin for Molloy (80 mins).

BOHEMIANS: Russell, T O'Connor, Hunt, John, Mullen, Dempsey, G O'Connor, Caffrey, O'Hanlon, Crowe, Harris. Sub: Swan for Crowe (75 mins).

Referee: J McDermott (Dublin).