Mayo Women's League 2025 season kicks off

CASTLEBAR Town laid down an early marker in the opening game of the Mayo Women's League Premier Division, hitting Straide & Foxford for six.

Their hosts did get a consolation goal, but 4-0 down at half-time was always going to be a tough mountain to climb.

Roisin Kelly got the opening goal for the Mayo Women's Cup holders after 10 minutes, while Louise Dowling was to go on to net herself a hat-trick.

S&F's reply came from the penalty spot minutes into the second half, struck by Fiona Roache. But Town cancelled that out in the 52nd minute and pushed on to win comfortably, 1-6.

Division 2 saw two of three new clubs to join the league this year in action but there was no joy for either Achill Rovers or Fahy Rovers, who were both away.

Fahy succumbed to Ballina Town 9-1 - Deirbhile Kilcullen and Beth Fair both having hat-tricks. Patricia O'Malley responded for Rovers on 18 minutes after they fell two goals behind, but Ballina, who only returned to the league last year, saw their experience count to win by a comprehensive margin.

Achill visited Crossmolina where they suffered a 2-0 defeat despite putting in a great effort. Sarah Gough opened the scoring for the home side on 25 minutes, with Rachel Bourke adding the second 13 minutes into the second half to put full points on the board.

Swinford and Killala, meanwhile, took advantage of a free evening in their respective divisions and played a friendly, which the east Mayo side won 3-0.

FIXTURES

Friday, April 18, 6.30 p.m.

PREMIER DIVISION

Conn Rangers v Straide & Foxford

Manulla v Swinford

DIVISION 1

Kiltimagh Knock United v Kilmore

Westport United v Killala

DIVISION 2

Fahy Rovers v Glenhest Rovers

Ballina Town v Crossmolina