Conwal start Donegal Badminton League with 3-1 win over Raphoe

Conwal opened their Donegal Badminton League campaign with a 3-1 victory against Raphoe on Monday night.

The Letterkenny club hosted Raphoe for the opening fixture of the new season, missing leading player Russell Love after his promotion to junior level. Ryan McClintock stepped in as a substitute and contributed to the win.

In the first match, Graham Love and Ryan McClintock defeated Raphoe’s Jack Patterson and Jake McKnight, securing the opening point. The second pair, Chris O’Malley and Tony McCarry, overcame Thomas Dorrian and Reece Kilpatrick 21‑18, 21‑17, giving Conwal a 2‑0 lead.

McClintock returned for the third match, partnering McCarry to beat McKnight and Kilpatrick, extending the lead to 3‑0. The final match saw Graham Love and O’Malley face Patterson and Dorrian; Raphoe fought back, winning the decider and taking a league point.

Conwal manager John Love welcomed the season‑opening win, noting the close contests and commending Raphoe’s performance. He also thanked referee Alice Love, a New Zealand native, for her officiating. The evening ended with tea and homemade baking for players and supporters.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: eric anada / Pexels.