BOHEMIANS OPENED UP the Airtricity League title race last night with their derby win over Shamrock Rovers, but all over the league battles have opened up for survival and European qualification.

With just three matches remaining, Shamrock Rovers have a two point lead over Bohemians at the top of the table. Although Rovers seem to have the easier run-in, they are on a poor run.

Remaining fixtures for Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers:

Bohemians v St. Pats [A]

Bohemians v Galway United [A]

Bohemians v Dundalk [H]

Shamrock Rovers v Sporting Fingal [H]

Shamrock Rovers v Drogheda United [H]

Shamrock Rovers v Bray Wanderers [A]

In the relegation battle, Drogheda United could be consigned to automatic relegation with a loss this weekend. Drogs are six points adrift of Bray Wanderers, who look set for a promotion semi-final playoff with either Galway United or UCD.

Third spot is a European qualification spot, and the battle there is between Sligo Rovers, St. Pats and Sporting Fingal. Both Pats and the Bit O’ Red are on good runs, but Fingal will realistically need to win at least two of their final three matches.