Sport

'Mallards edged out by St Pat's

SETANTA SPORTS Cup new boys Ballinamallard United suffered a debut loss in the All-Ireland tournament, going down 1-0 to a more experienced St Patrick's Athletic.

The Ferney Park men gave a good account of themselves in last night's first leg clash against the highlyrated Dubliners, but fell behind to a 21st minute Chris Forrester tap in.

David Kee went close for the Ernemen in the second half, but his headed effort was well saved by Rene Gilmartin. Meanwhile, Coleraine came from behind to win 3-2 in their first round, first leg trip to Dundalk last night. Oran Kearney's men fell behind to an 18th minute strike from Daryl Horgan before a fine brace from man-of-the-match Davy McDaid (above) either side of half-time put the visitors ahead.

The Bannsiders increased their lead through Ruairi Harkin in the 58th minute, but two minutes later David McMillan pulled a consolation goal back for the young Lilywhites.

Elsewhere, cup holders Shamrock Rovers are virtually through to the next round after romping home to a 5-1 win over a makeshift Glentoran side.

Robert Bayly got Rovers off to a flier after seven minutes before John McGuigan got the Glens back on level terms after 23 minutes.

The visitors held out until the 61st minute until Kieran Waters edged Shamrock Rovers in front and in the final 16 minutes the home side hit three more goals - Stephen McPhail, Gary McCabe and Simon Madden - to complete a miserable night for the Irish League outfit.