Dundalk recorded a comfortable win over 10-man Drogheda United at Oriel Park, with Alex Williams netting twice for his new club.

The Lilywhites went ahead on 18 minutes when Ger Rowe fired the home side into the lead.

The turning point of the match came on 36 minutes when Scott Gibb was given his marching orders on his Drogheda United debut for his second bookable offence.

The Northern Ireland Under-21 international received his second yellow card for a rash challenge on Kevin McKinlay and was promptly dismissed.

Despite being a man down, Alan Mathews' team dragged themselves back into the game, Conor Kenna flicking Brendan McGill's free kick into the net.

Williams grabbed his first of the game shortly before the break and a Chris Turner penalty kick put the game beyond doubt on 57 minutes after Kenna had been penalised for handball.

Williams further impressed the home fans as he did superbly to put the Lilywhites 4-1 up on 67 minutes.

Shane Barrett missed a penalty for the visitors late on before James Chambers scored a consolation.

Dundalk: Cherrie; Shaun Kelly, Burns, Heary, McGowan, (McAreavey 75); Daly, Turner, Collins, (Mansaram 71) McKinlay, (Mulvenna, HT); Rowe, Williams.

Subs not used: Kelly, Bennion

Drogheda United: Skinner; Gibb, Kenna, McNally, Osbourne (Clarke 7); King, Crowley, Shiels, (Duffy 64), McGill; Barrett, Bates, (Chambers, HT)

Subs not used: Ryan, Williams

Referee: Tom Connolly (Dublin)