Goals aplenty as Super League returns

THERE were four wins from four games in the Super League today as the new season got off to a entertaining start around the county.

Defending champions Westport United secured victory with a late strike to win by the odd goal in three on their visit to Ballyglass, giving new manager John Russell a perfect start to his managerial reign.

United took the lead through Darren Browne but the game was level at half-time thanks to a Ballyglass equaliser scored by Conor Heneghan.

The winner was scored minutes from time by Brandon Scahill, and even then Ballyglass created a couple of threatening situations as they looked for a second equalising goal.

Castlebar Celtic's 4-1 win over Claremorris in Celtic Park wasn't quite as clear-cut as the scoreline would suggest. They were full value for their 2-0 half-time lead, both goals scored by Liam Flatley, but Hubert Kowalski's excellent strike early in the second half led to a few nervy moments before two quick-fire goals from Flatley and Ger O'Boyle settled the issue.

Ballina Town enjoyed a great start to the campaign with a 4-0 victory over Manulla at Celtic Park. The visitors had the better of the opening exchanges but a scrappy goal by Dylan McKee turned the game in the hosts' favour and further efforts before the break by Duane Helly and Brendan Lavelle had them firmly in command. They had to wait until close to the very end of the game for goal number four, Jamie Cawley heading in from Mark Birrane's excellent free kick delivery.

Finally, it was a topsy-turvy game in Carnenash Park to mark Iorras Aontaithe's return to the Super League. Michael Guilfoyle gave visitors Straide & Foxford United the lead but Peter McArthur netted an equaliser before Ryan Ruddy slotted home from the spot to give Iorras a 2-1 lead at the break. Guilfoyle scored early and late in the second half, however, to secure all three points for the visitors.

The match between Kiltimagh/Knock United and Ballyheane was postponed due to a bereavement.

There were four games played in the Premier League as well and again there were four clear winners as Ballyhaunis Town beat Bangor Hibs 5-1, Snugboro United accounted for Westport United B 3-1, Glenhest Rovers won 2-0 against Conn Rangers, and Swinford proved too strong for Ballyglass B on a 5-2 scoreline.