Ilkley AFC had a pre-season workout against Guiseley Reserves and did well to hold things to 2-0. James Elliott scored both Guiseley's goals.

The new football season begins for a rejuvenated Ilkley AFC on Saturday with an away fixture at Tockwith in the Harrogate Premier League.

Pre-season practice has been well attended and a prestigious friendly against Guiseley Reserves revealed commitment and talent amongst the Ilkley players.

Several new players have been signed and strong links forged with the Ilkley Youth team.

Following Saturday's match at Tockwith, Ilkley play the first home game at West Holmes field on Tuesday evening against local rivals Burley Trojans (KO 6.30pm). S

upport is welcome and new coach Dave Houlston is looking forward to improving the quality of senior football in Ilkley.

Sponsorship for the senior team has been gratefully received from Branch Auto Bodies (Ilkley) and Vincent Dobson Builders, and the Ilkley Vaults is providing post-match refreshments.

Trojans all set to start

BURLEY Trojans kick-off their Premier League campaign on Saturday with a trip to Harrogate to take on Spa Athletic.

Spa had the better of last terms encounters, sharing the spoils in an eight goal thriller in Harrogate and then inflicting Trojans heaviest defeat of the season on he Rec.

Trojans have warmed up for the big kick off with a couple of victories in friendly matches. A mixture of first and second teamers overwhelmed Third Division Yew Tree 8-0 with hit man Chris Connolly scoring four times, Pete Sumner (twice) and skipper Nick Quaife and Jonny Clarkson completing the scoring.

Last week Trojans overcame local Craven League Premier Division opponents Addingham by three goals to one. Veteran striker Phil Constantine and Quaife scored first half goals and, despite a brief resurgence from the visitors, Connolly wrapped things up late on from the penalty spot.

Following the league opener Trojans then visit local rivals Ilkley on Tuesday evening, kick off 6.15pm.

The Reserves do not kick off their league programme until next Thursday (31st), when they entertain new boys Park Row Associates on The Rec, kick off 6.15pm. The Reserves warmed up with a 3-3 draw against Cononley from the Craven League. A thrity yard screamer from Clarkson gave Trojans the lead before the visitors struck three times. Andy Vowles reduced the arrears with a powerful header following a corner and then Steve Hitchen levelled, cutting inside and floating an exquisite lob into the top corner.

Trojans supporters can follow the clubs fortunes on the internet on the Burley community website. Log on to www.burley-in-wharfedale.org then click on to "The Village", "Recreation", "Sports" then "Burley Trojans".