Athlone Town 2-1 Finn Harps
Finn Harps’ season got off to a disappointing start as Athlone Town deservedly claimed the spoils at Lissywollen tonight.
Harps took the lead in the fifth minute when new signing Temi Ajibola showed strength and desire in the box and hammered to the net.
Athlone responded well and equalised in the 12th minute when Peter Grogan managed to squeeze the ball over the line.
The home side then took the lead when Harps defender Conor Tourish scored an own goal in the 32nd minute.
The Ballybofey club were 2-1 down at half-time and had three shots that went over the bar in the second half.
Fifteen year-old Odhran McHugh – son of manager, Kevin – came on up front but Harps struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Nathan Lumingo did try his luck but the experienced Athlone ‘keeper Brendan Clarke was able to save.
Harps finished the game with ten men when Daniel Lacerda was sent off in the 93rd minute.
