There was drama, excitement and controversy on the opening day of the Smirnoff Irish League Premier Division Championship - and a pattern could already have emerged.

Only one of the four games produced a positive result, with promoted Coleraine defeating Ards at the Showgrounds. They did so with a late penalty from Robbie Brunton.

The fury came at Shamrock Park and Seaview with rows over a tackle on Portadown defender Philip Major and a furore when Londonderry referee John Ferry awarded Glenavon the penalty which brought them their point against Crusaders.