ELTON VALE II ...1

DUKINFIELD TOWN...2

WITH the first team having no fixture due to their scheduled opponents Dukinfield Town being involved in a Cheshire Cup game, the spotlight fell on Elton Vale's reserve team who entertained Dukinfield's second string, current leaders of Division Two.

Vale paraded three new signings, sixteen-year-old 'keeper Ian Critchley, defender Matt Hannon and midfielder Stuart Stott and all put in promising performances as Elton unluckily lost by the odd goal in three.

After going two goals down, one of which came from a wicked deflection, the home side staged a strong fight back and Stott reduced the arrears from the penalty spot with eight minutes remaining.

Dukinfield however, just about held out to claim the points but the Elton players can take heart from a much more positive display.

It's the first Round of the Lancashire Amateur Shield tomorrow and Vale are at home to West Lancashire League side Haslingden St. Mary's. Kick-off is 2pm with the tie having to be settled on the day.

With more players now available, Elton will be hoping to have a much stronger squad on duty than in recent weeks.

The reserves make the journey south to Derbyshire for a league fixture against New Mills reserves that kicks off at 2.30pm.