Derry manager Kevin Mahon failed to lift his side

Derry City suffered a disastrous start to the new summer Eircom League campaign with a disappointing defeat at the Brandywell.

Derry, who were left struggling for Premiership survival last season got the perfect start with an Eamon Doherty goal.

But first-half goals by Barry Ferguson, Eric Lavine and Alan Kirby decided the issue as Derry ended with 10 men following the sending off of Gary Beckett.

Gareth McGlynn grabbed a consolation goal in added time, but Derry failed to grab the vital equaliser for a disappointing start to the season.

The Candystripes must be kicking themselves after failing to build on their electric start when the long-serving Doherty rifled home a 20-yard effort after only three minutes.

However, within 15 minutes the Candystripes were 3-1 behind.

Longford went straight upfield and a mistake by stand-in goalkeeper Alan Petterson allowed defender Ferguson to equalise.

Four minutes later, dangerous West Indian striker Lavine put Longford ahead with a sweet strike.

Lavine then caused panic in a static Derry defence in the 18th minute which ended with former Waterford Town midfielder Alan Kirby pushing the ball home from close range.

Stern words from manager Kevin Mahon enabled Derry to start the second half with more fire. However, they were still unable to put Longford under any pressure at the back.

Longford almost went further in front, but Eddie McCallion cleared off the line.

Derry veteran Liam Coyle came on as a 62nd minute substitute but missed a glorious chance on the hour when his header was easily saved by goalkeeper Stephen O'Brien.

Derry were then reduced to 10 men when Gary Beckett was sent off following an off-the-ball incident in the 80th minute.

Then came a frantic finish when McGlynn fired home his side's second goal in injury-time, and another shot hit a post.