Roscommon lost out to Down in the Lidl ladies league opener by one point 4-9 to 4-10.
Roscommon shot out of the traps with early goals from Laura Fleming and Lisa O’Rourke, but Down turned this around to lead by seven points at one stage.
A Niamh Shanagher goal and points from Aisling Hanly and Laure Fleming left the game, 3-5 to 3-3 in favour of down at half-time.
Roscommon fought hard in the second-half and led by two points 3-8 to 3-6. However a Jessica Foy goal saw Down push four points clear at the second water break.
A Jenny Higgins goal left the minimum between the sides heading into stoppage time. A late Abby Curran drifted just wide of the posts as the Roscommon women lost out.
Roscommon travel to Louth for round two next week. In the other game in the group, Louth and Sligo drew 1-10 apiece.
