Top Mayo club survive Glenhest test to open title defence

Castlebar Celtic got their Super League title defence off to a winning start this morning, edging out a dogged Glenhest Rovers side 2-1 in a bruising opening-round contest at the Strand.

Stevie Gavin's men were made to work hard throughout, with all four seasons making their presence felt on the day, but it was Celtic who drew first blood.

A precise through ball from Johnny Cocozza released Luke Kelly, who made no mistake with the finish on 19 minutes.

Celtic doubled their lead in fortuitous circumstances when Dylan Felle's shot across the face of goal was deflected into his own net by Rovers defender Eoin McNulty.

Glenhest pulled one back on 74 minutes through Eoin Wright, who was set up by substitute Paul McLoughlin moments after coming off the bench, and Celtic were made to defend resolutely in the closing stages.

Ben McHale was outstanding at the back, putting his body on the line in the dying minutes when Pat Mulchrone threatened to level.

A major talking point was the return of Jason Hunt, making his first Super League appearance since May of last year.

Full match report to follow inside Tuesday's edition of the Connaught Telegraph