Sligo Rovers produced a professional performance at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium to claim their first points of the season against a frustrated Derry City.
Their opening win of the shortened campaign will have given Liam Buckley's side a major confidence boost.
The ‘Bit O’Red’ moved the ball forward quickly and reaped dividends, with industrious striker Ronan Coughlan causing early problems for the hosts.
Regan Donelon floated a corner-kick into the danger area in the 19th minute and centre-back, Kyle McFadden headed firmly into the Derry net from 10 yards to give the visitors a surprise lead.
On a rare occasion when the home side did threaten during the opening half, Garry Buckley did well to deflect a Walter Figueira shot wide of his goal in the 35th minute.
Derry’s woes were compounded within five minutes of the second half when centre-back Eoin Toal brought down Sligo hitman Coughlan in the box and referee Paul McLaughlin immediately pointing to the spot.
Coughlan dusted himself down and casually stroked the ball low into the corner to double his side’s lead.
Delighted with their two-goal cushion, Sligo were happy to control the possession and hit on the break with pace when opportunities presented themselves.
Derry failed to force Sligo keeper Ed McGinty into a serious save throughout the game and boss Declan Devine cut a frustrated figure as time ran out.
