GRINDLETON may have suffered their first defeat of the season in the Devonshire Carpets Premier Division League Cup last weekend at the hands of Cross Hills, but they remain at the top of the table after five matches with an unbeaten record still intact.

Early signs are that the competition could be very interesting this season, with four teams still unbeaten and another two - including defending champions Oxenhope Recreation - with only one reverse.

Skipton LMS stole a march on the top two last weekend when they closed the gap on the leaders with a win over Lothersdale, but they have a day off tomorrow which will allow their rivals a chance to repay the compliment.

Grindleton's visit to Bradley tomorrow suggests that one unbeaten record may well fall, barring a draw of course, while Lothersdale did well enough after early concessions against LMS to suggest that they can give Oxenhope a run for their money at home.

Chatburn lead the way in Division One, thanks largely to the prolific Steven Newton, but there are better signs for the fortunes of Skipton Town, who are currently in second place.

Gargrave are the only unbeaten side in the table, but with only a couple of games played the jury is still out on their promotion credentials.

Not much doubt about Cross Hills Reserves promotion hopes in Division Two. They have started the season like a house on fire and are averaging six goals each game during a run of seven consecutive victories.

That kind of form looks irresistible, but Hellifield Sports and Skipton LMS, also unbeaten, may have something to say on that score as the season unfolds.

Newcomers Oakworth Juniors are leading the way in Division Three and also have not yet had their colours lowered.