SILDSEN rekindled memories of their County Cup victory with a superb Charity Shield win to kick-start the new soccer season.

The game was switched to Cougar Park because redevelopment work is being carried out at the West Riding FA's Woodlesford ground -- and Silsden capitalised on their home advantage.

Rain reduced the expected bumper crowd, but those who attended were treated to a feast of football from the Cobbydale team who ran out 5-1 winners over East Bowling Unity.

Silsden started the slower of the two teams and allowed East Bowling too much room. They opened Silsden's defence twice but each time theyshot wide of the gaol.

After 10 minutes Silsden were awarded a corner which Andrew Holden flighted perfectly for Mick Ward to get the first if his treble.

Five minutes later a Unity player was dismissed for throwing a punch and dead-ball specialist Andrew Holden stepped forward to take the kick with Martin Bland heading home at the far post to make it 2-0.

East Bowling scored from a free kick 10 minutes before the break, with the 25-yard shot giving keeper Martin Foulger no chance.

Silsden dominated the second period and went further ahead when Ward coolly slotted home.

Jimmy Spencer followed up to score from close range to take Silsden into a comfortable 4-1 lead.

Rosser, Bland and Lund were solid at the back, soaking up any pressure the East Bowling team applied, while Broadhead, Bland and Finn worked tirelessly in midfield breaking up any attacking play.

With 10 minutes to go Mick Ward completed his hat-trick with a penalty to put the final gloss on an excellent performance.

Michael Rhodes and Jimmy Hedges also worked hard, making it difficult to find a man of the match.

Silsden followed up with a 3-1 win over Eccleshill United in the first friendly match of the pre-season, turning on a display which promises much for the coming season.

After 12 minutes Mick Ward scored with a superb chip into the far corner but Eccleshill equalised just before half time following a goalkeeping error.

They continued to enjoy a lot of possession in the second half, but created very few opportunities.

It wasn't until the final five minutes that Silsden scored their second through a Gavin Finn header when he ghosted in at the far corner to connect with Jimmy Spencer's coerner.

Two minutes later Mick Ward caught the goalkeeper napping and flicked the ball into the net to complete another solid performance.

Silsden's are at home for their opening league fixture of the season, a derby clash with Keighley Phoenix on Wednesday, August 21.

n CROSS HILLS were the first local side to kick off their league season on Saturday.

The side is embarking on its third season in the second division of the West Lancashire League following their rise through the Craven & East Lancashire Leagues.

Their first game of the season ended in a 2-1 defeat at Cumbrian side Furness Cavaliers, Wilkinson netting for the locals.