More Danske Bank Premiership fans came through the gates on this year's opening day than last year's record.

The Northern Ireland Football League have revealed it was a record breaking opening weekend in the Danske Bank Premiership, with almost 9,000 fans coming through the turnstiles to the first series of games.

The 8,960 spectators across the six fixtures surpassed the previous opening day record total of 6,384 set last season.

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Saturday's game at The Oval between Glentoran and Cliftonville also attracted a record opening day crowd over the 10-year period since attendances have been recorded, with 2,920 in attendance to witness Jay Donnelly's last-minute winner for the Reds.

Saturday 4 August

Coleraine v Warrenpoint Town - 912

Dungannon Swifts v Ballymena United - 878

Glenavon v Linfield - 2,584

Glentoran v Cliftonville – 2,920

Institute v Newry City - 450

Monday 6 August

Crusaders v Ards – 1,216

NI Football League Managing Director Andrew Johnston said: "The start of the new Premiership season always creates a buzz of excitement and optimism, but this year we sensed something special has captured the public imagination.

"The end of last season was incredible, and we know this season could potentially match that again. We would encourage everyone to come out and take in a game at your local club this season."

The Premiership continues this weekend with six more top games split across Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.

Belfast Telegraph