Reigning Premier Division champions Derry failed again to record their first victory of the new season when surprisingly held by the lively UCD on Saturday night at the Brandywell.

"It was a shocking performance," declared Derry manager Felix Healy after the game.

UCD shocked the Brandywell attendance with the game's opening goal in the 21st minute. An incisive through ball by midfield, Mick O'Byrne, caught the Derry defence square and Jason Sherlock raced clear to drive the ball past Declan Devine.

But Derry deservedly restored equality in the 44th minute when a clever Sean Hargan flick-on saw James Keddy break on the left and he had no difficulty in beating Shane Kelly with a powerful drive.