Derry City 0 Sligo Rovers 1: THE Sligo express breezed through the Brandywell last night, with Ian Baraclough's side opening the defence of their league title with a deserved victory over Derry City.

While the home team struggled with injuries and suspensions, the visitors controlled the game and defended their slender lead when required.

The hero for Sligo was debutant striker Anthony Elding, who led from the front when netting the game’s only goal. It was fashioned by a fluent move and a superb low cross from Rafa Cretaro, who made it easy for the ex-Grimsby hitman on the half hour.

In the 55th minute the visitors went close to doubling their lead when, following a Ross Gaynor corner, Sligo skipper Gavin Peers headed wide.

Derry’s best chance arrived in the 63rd minute when Ruaidhri Higgins played substitute Michael Rafter in behind the Sligo defence but in the one-on-one situation with advancing goalkeeper Gary Rogers, the striker’s lob failed to hit the target.