NFL Division 4 round-up

London top Division 4 of the Allianz Football League after the opening round of matches. Leitrim were also victorious, while there were draws in the Carlow v Wicklow and Longford v Roscommon games.

At Ruislip, London started their 2011 campaign with a 0-16 to 0-2 triumph over Kilkenny. The Exiles led by 0-13 to 0-0 at half-time, but were well-matched by the visitors on the restart.

London only outscored the Cats by 0-3 to 0-2 in the second half, with both defences tightening up.

Meanwhile, Leitrim bounced back from a heavy loss to Mayo in the FBD League last week, battling their way to a 0-12 to 0-11 win over Clare at Carrick-on-Shannon.

Leitrim led by 0-6 to 0-4 at half-time, with Clare's Gordon Kelly sent off before the break. The dismissal of David Tubridy in the 41st minute left Clare with 13 players, but Leitrim were made to fight right until the final whistle.

Neighbours Carlow and Wicklow shared the spoils following a 2-10 to 1-13 draw at Dr Cullen Park. Wicklow were 0-7 to 0-6 ahead at the interval, and the contest remained closely-fought into the second half.

Substitute Cormac Mullins and Thomas Walsh claimed second half goals for Carlow to move them 2-8 to 0-10 in front. Wicklow were reduced to 14 men following the dismissal of John McGrath, but they kept plugging away.

Leighton Glynn edged Wicklow into a late lead, but Luke Dempsey's side held their composure to snatch a last-gasp equaliser.

At Pearse Park, Paul Barden netted the only goal as Longford and Roscommon drew 1-7 to 0-10. The hosts showed their mettle by overcoming a 0-7 to 0-4 deficit at half-time.

Barden's goal in the 49th minute, from a Sean McCormack pass, gave Glenn Ryan's charges real hope.

Roscommon's first score of the second half did not arrive until the 56th minute when Cathal Shine was on target. The sides remained deadlocked in the closing stages and a draw was a fair result.