Cork City got their League of Ireland title bid off to a solid start as the runners-up from the last two years beat Bohemians 2-0 at home.
Two goals from Sean Maguire meant all three points stayed at Turner's Cross.
But St Patrick's Athletic suffered a setback on the opening night of the 2016 season as they slumped to a 3-1 defeat at home to Galway United FC.
Christy Fagan gave Pats the lead shortly after half-time, but goals from Vinny Faherty, John Sullivan and Enda Curran helped Galway turn the game on its head.
Elsewhere, newly promoted Finn Harps won the Ulster derby with goals from David Scully and Ryan Curran seeing them past Derry City by a 2-1 scoreline.
And Kevin O'Connor and Josh O'Hanlon goals were enough for Longford Town to defeat Wexford Town 1-0.
Kenny Browne of Cork with Ismahil Akinade of Bohs ©INPHO/Donall Farmer
St. Patrick’s Billy Dennehy reacts to a missed free kick ©INPHO/Gary Carr
President Michael D Higgins at tonight's St Pats v Galway ©INPHO/Gary Carr
Derry City fans ©INPHO/Presseye/Lorcan Doherty
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