Eircom League Premier Division champions Cork City got their defence of their title off to the perfect start with a 1-0 victory over newly-promoted Dublin City at Turner's Cross.
Cork's midfield maestro George O'Callaghan, opened the scoring from the penalty spot after just four minutes for the first goal of the 2006 season.
In the early stages Cork were playing sweet passing football, but Dermot Keely's Dublin side stood firm to keep the score to 1-0 at the break.
Dublin came more into the game after the break and tested Cork goalkeeper Michael Devine on a couple of occasions, but in the end City manager Damien Richardson and the 4,000 Turner's Cross crowd were glad of the three points and the full time whistle.
Dublin, who were promoted after defeating Shamrock Rovers in last seasons play-offs, had their best chance from a David McGill effort. However his shot was blocked by Devine, whilst Cork's John O'Flynn tested goalkeeper Gary Rogers late on.
The Leesiders will have little rest as they travel to Dungannon and a Setanta Cup Group 1 match this coming Tuesday night.
