NI League Cup: Rooney hits treble as Blues win opener

Louis Rooney had a Linfield debut to remember after scoring a quickfire hat-trick in the 6-0 hammering of Lisburn Distillery in the League Cup.

Holders Ballymena beat Knockbreda 3-0 in the second round while Crusaders came from behind to defeat Dundela 2-1.

Glenavon thumped Donegal Celtic 5-1 while Cliftonville and Coleraine both hit four goals to progress on a night when all Premiership sides won.

Ballyclare Comrades, PSNI, Portadown and Institute are also through.

Glentoran needed extra-time to see off Loughgall at Lakeview Park with John McGuigan winning it for the east Belfast side.

It was an even closer affair for Ballinamallard United with the Fermanagh side beating Tobermore United on penalties after a Ferney Park stalemate.

Premiership leaders Linfield top-scored by smashing the Whites for six with Matthew Clarke, Andy Mitchell and Josh Robinson on target before Rooney stole the show.

The striker signed from Plymouth Argyle last week and he bagged an eight-minute treble to make the perfect start to his Windsor Park career.

"I'm absolutely delighted - to get on the pitch was great but to get three goals was perfect," said Rooney.

Mark Sykes also scored a hat-trick in Glenavon's win over Donegal Celtic while Ballymena began their defence of the trophy with a comfortable win.

Cathair Friel put the Sky Blues in front before goals from Joe McKinney and William Faulkner against a Knockbreda side which finished with the 10 men.