MCCAULEY HELP COLERAINE REMAIN LEADERS IN IRELAND

In Ireland, Darren McCauley’s double after Josh Carson’s opener helped the Premiership side defeat Ards 3-0.


The victory means they have won six times in six matches, starting the new term on a brilliant note.

Though Coleraine ran away heavy winners, it wasn’t heavy at first. They played a goalless draw in the first half as Ards held them. Carson broke through though with his close range effort before McCauley grabbed his brace.

In another fixture, Lindfielddefeated Glentoran 1-0 to continue their top form. Aaron Burns’ early goal was enoughas David Healy’s side claimed all three points. Burns headed the ball in, in the fifth minuteas the champions cruised to a narrow victory over their cross city opponents. Their 100 percent record continues but they remain three points behind Coleraine. They have a match in hand though as they battle Crusaders on Tuesday.

Windsor Park would be excited with the result as they are yet to conceded in the league after five matches.Glentoran would be disappointed with their first loss of the term, Linfield have the last 13 fixtures between both sides, playing a draw in six matches aside a loss.

In other games of the day, Crusaders were heavy winners at Ballianamallard United. Paul Heatley scored a hat trick, while Philip Lowry and Jordan Owens also scored. The Crues won the game comfortably at Ferney Park, leaving their hosts clueless. It makes the fourth win for Stephen Baxter’s side after five matches.

Cliftonville defeated Dungannon Swifts 2-1 while Warrenpoint Town lost at home to Ballymena United 1-3.

Garry Breen and Joe Gormley scored in the second half to help the Clifts against the Swifts. CathairFriel and Emmet Friars were on target as Ballymena turned from their disappointing start.