Donegal Celtic 0 Carrick Rangers 0

A below-par performance from the visitors and DC’s determination to secure a point meant Carrick ended their 100 per cent start to the league season.

Yet, the opening minutes pointed to a comfortable away victory. Richard Gibson was fouled just outside the box after only 10 seconds and from the resulting free-kick, Jody Lynch saw his curling effort impressively saved.

Aiden O’Kane’s long ball to the left was controlled by Correy Davidson, who released Jarlath O’Rourke down the left flank. The full-back’s cross was met by Lynch but his header was straight at the goalkeeper.

The home side’s only meaningful chance of the half came just before the break when Joe Todd was given too much room to shoot from 18 yards and the ball flew inches wide of the post.

Aaron Harmon’s free-kick rattled the DC crossbar in the 50th minute, while Gareth Deane palmed Conor Downey’s powerful effort against the post at the other end.

Harmon again went close from a set-piece after Joe Murray was fouled and Lynch cut inside to force DC’s keeper into making a full length diving save.

Carrick fans called for Adam Dick to be brought on and the former Larne striker was introduced to play 10 minutes from time.

The Gers applied late pressure, with Harmon the driving force from midfield, but the home defence stood firm, much to the frustration of the travelling Amber Army.

With seconds remaining, Lynch fired a half-volley agonisingly wide from the edge of the box.

Carrick Rangers : Deane, Smyth, O’Rourke (Dick 80), O’Kane, Taggart, Curran, Lynch, Harmon, Burns (McConnell 45), Gibson, Davidson (Murray 30). Subs not used: Steele, Kelly.