Newry City made a winning start to this season's Carling Premiership as they comfortably defeated a disappointing Swifts side at the Showgrounds.

Gerard Rowe struck Newry ahead from the penalty spot on 27 minutes after an apparent handball offence in the box.

Newry keeper Andy Coleman denied Ryan McIlmoyle after half-time before substitute Andy Graham struck the home team's second goal on 74 minutes.

Conor Downey added Newry's third five minutes from time.

Newry boss Gerry Flynn included summer signings Conor Downey, Francis Murphy and John Convery while recent arrivals Ryan McCluskey and Jonny Topley were on the Dungannon bench.

Matt Hazley went close for Newry early on with a long-range free-kick but it was a cagey opening 25 minutes.

However, Newry took the lead on 27 minutes with Rowe slotting from the penalty spot after referee Hugh Carville had spotted a handball in the box.

Boosted by the goal, Newry bossed the contest for the remainder of the first half as Ross Black and Matt Hazley both went close for the home side.

McCluskey and Topley came on for Dungannon at half-time and the duo's introduction gave impetus to the Swifts.

Newry keeper Coleman had to make a fine save to deny a fierce drive from McIlmoyle.

However, the contest was effectively over on 76 minutes when sub Graham ran on to a long ball and held his nerve to slot past Dungannon keeper Sean O'Neill.

Downey adding Newry's third goal five minutes from time after he showed some silky skills on the edge of the Dungannon box before firing home.

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