Home Internationals: Ireland enjoyed a dream start to the Seniors Home Internationals at Lahinch Golf Club yesterday, recording a 5½ to 3½ win over holders England.

Leading by 2½ matches to a half following the morning foursomes, singles wins for Hugh Smyth and Michael Malone, both 4 and 3, left Ireland requiring just half a point for victory.

England fought back with three singles wins, before Portmarnock's Hugh Mackeown holed a 12-footer on the 17th to record a 2 and 1 win over Gordon Broster.