ATHLONE TOWN Under-21's proved too strong for League debutants Ballinasloe Town in Saint Mel's Park on Monday night.

Colm Muldoon's side ran out 3 - 0 winners thanks to second half goals from Alan Kelly, Michael Collins and Noel McGee.

Kelly, who later replaced Robert Forde in goal, converted from the spot after Anthony Hayes was taken down in the box on the hour mark.

Michael Collins extended the lead in the 74th minute with a fantastic finish from the left edge of the box.

Noel McGee wrapped things up in the 88th minute when he tapped home from close range, after a good run from Iarfhlaith Davoren down the right.

Town are scheduled to be back in Saint Mel's Park on Sunday afternoon, when like the seniors on Friday night, they take on Galway United.

ATHLONE TOWN: Robert Forde, Robbie Hamm, Keith O'Reilly, Michael Harney, Niall Scullion, Anthony Hayes, Alan Kelly, Carmine Russo, Iarfhlaith Davoren, Noel McGee, Michael Collins. SUBS: Kevin Cummins, Dave O'Brien, Shane Egan.

BALLINASLOE TOWN: Darren Smith, Jason Clogher, Gary Canavan, Thomas Carty, Aiden Ryan, Mark Duffy, Darragh Concannon, Shane Duffy, Liam Lynch, Eoin Donnellan, Gary Egan. SUBS: Niall Stack, Shane Kelly, Denis Glynn.