Conor Hagan may lack Mid-Ulster experience but the former Irish League midfielder confirmed his quality with a commanding performance on Saturday for St Mary’s.
Hagan scored one goal and picked up plaudits for his assured display to kick off life as St Mary’s player/manager with victory.
Hagan was joined on the scoresheet by one of his summer signings, Johnny Stewart, as St Mary’s defeated Lower Maze by 2-0.
Michael O’Hehir’s corner-kick was headed home by Hagan before Stewart raced in to convert determined work by Ryan Lawless.
“Conor and Dermot Kelly were excellent in midfield,” said St Mary’s Gerry Fay. “We managed to press across the pitch with real energy thanks to Conor’s influence.”