Paidi O'Se's first league game in charge of Clare ended in victory as centre forward Michael O’Shea hit three crucial late scores against Carlow in a 0-17 to 1-09 victory.
The Banner men looked well on course for the win at the interval at Dr. Cullen Park – they led 0-10 to 0-5 by that stage.
Carlow though were forced to launch a late fight back as two points from corner back Mark Nolan, a goal from Castledaly clubman Derek Heavin and a brace of Brian Kelly points saw the sides level.
O'Shea's scores, coming in a five-point burst from the visitors, kept Clare’s hands on the two league points.
At Hyde Park, Monaghan took an opening day win – beating Roscommon 2-11 to 1-10 – with Thomas Freeman and Ciaran Hanratty scoring their goals.
A late green flag from Seamus O'Neill raised Roscommon’s hopes, despite them having Michael Finneran sent-off. Although Monaghan, who also had Paul Finlay red-carded, held on for the points.
Elsewhere in Division 2B, Longford emerged as 5-19 to 0-8 victors over an outclassed London side, and Leitrim surprised Offaly with a one-point win (0-12 to 0-11) in Cloone.
