Baildon Trinity started the new campaign in the West Yorkshire Premier League against the side that has finished first and third in the last two seasons.

Few people gave Baildon a chance against one of the much fancied teams in the top league.

However, although ultimately going down in an entertaining match, Baildon showed enough in this game to prove they will probably win more than they will lose in what is Baildon's first visit to West Yorkshire's elite.

The first half was one of a midfield battle with few chances at either end. Carlton creating the better of the few chances.

Indeed, they converted one of these to lead at half-time when the Carlton number nine beat the offside trap and tucked the ball away neatly.

Baildon came out refreshed for the second half and really got at Carlton. Much hard work finally paid off when Baildon equallised after a neat move down the left involving the skipper, Mark Spilsbury and winger Paul Clarke.

Richard Harris appeared in the box to tuck home Clarke's centre, effortlessly.

Baildon pushed forward as did Carlton and this seemed to cancel each other out and a fair result of a draw looked the likely outcome.

However, in the 90th minute, a needless free-kick was given away deep in Baildon territory, and the resulting dead ball was deftly headed home from close range.

It was unfortunate for Baildon and out of jail for Carlton. Baildon will need to learn from mistakes but can still take a lot from the game. On Saturday, Baildon are at home to Wakefield.