LARGS kicked off their AAFA Div 2 league campaign with a convincing victory against a well organised Darvel side.
Largs handed competitive debuts to two new summer signings: ex-Largs Thistle player Gordon Dunlop and David Hillier, a returning hero from the 2014/15 promotion winning team.
Following some cagey opening exchanges, Largs took the lead when a cultured through ball from Dunlop found fans favourite David Mills, who wasted no time in opening his account for the season, slotting low past the advancing ‘keeper.
The lead was doubled when a pinpoint Russell free kick found the head of Cockerill who nodded home from eight yards.
Dunlop added the third just before the break, with Mills returning the favour and teeing up the new signing for an emphatic finish into the roof of the net, leaving the ‘keeper with no chance.
Darvel began the second half brightly but were restricted to a single effort on target, forcing a reaction save from Cunningham to preserve the three goal lead.
The game was then put beyond Darvel with Mills again the provider, this time teeing up Cockerill for his second of the day.
Mills then grabbed a second of his own, latching on to a long punt upfield from Cunningham, and outmuscling the Darvel defence to fire home.
Riddell, McGill and Bowie were all introduced in the second half, with Riddell impressing with a last ditch tackle to prevent a Darvel shot on goal, and McGill looking strong in both defence and attack.
Mills capped off a fine personal display in the closing stages when he won a penalty which was duly despatched by Player Manager McGowan. Mills still awaits an explanation as to why he was denied the chance to complete his hat trick.
The victory marked a solid Largs performance with McMunn and Hillier causing trouble on the wings and Dunlop and Russell pulling the strings in the middle. Connor at right back also impressed but Mills was the stand out man, having played a hand in 5 of the 6 goals.
The game marked the final match for Largs under the management of Player Manager McGowan. McGowan’s spell in charge has undoubtedly seen improvement on and off the field and everyone at the club is grateful for his sterling efforts over the last two years. Andy McGill will now take over as manager as Largs look to build on the opening day victory.
Largs wish Darvel all the best for the season. Thanks also to JG Sharps for their continued support.
Team: Cunningham, Connor (McGill), Mitchell, McGowan, Turley, Dunlop, Russell (Bowie), Hillier, McMunn, Cockeril (Riddell), Mills: Unused: Irving