On a personal note it was fantastic to see the lads in action after my long spell in hospital.
The Reds got off to the perfect start with Ruairi Og slotting over the opening point, but East Belfast replied with a goal and the Reds had it all to do again. However the play quickly swung to the other end of the field and Ballyvarley reasserted their control when full-forward Thomas Lennon slammed the ball to the net.
Johnny (2) and Thomas Lennon and Callum McConville added further points for the Reds to give them a four point advantage. East Belfast pointed a free before Paddy McGrath crashed home the Reds second goal.
Before half time Michael Lennon added a third goal to make the interval score Ballyvarley 3-5 East Belfast 1-2.
Ballyvarley maintained their advantage the second half and won by
3-8 to 2-6, an encouraging start to the new season.