CLITHEROE conceded the NWCL's fastest goal of the season and never recovered. Darren Twigg was on target inside four minutes after Clitheroe's defenders had failed to clear their lines -- a story line which continued throughout a frustrating afternoon.

A glorious equaliser from Lee Cryer in the 26 minute, the strikerr cutting inside two defenders before crashing home a left foot shot from the edge of the box, was cancelled out before half time after another mixup at the back.

This time Stuart Walker was the Kidsgrove striker who made the most of the gift wrapped opportunity.

Three minutes into the second half though Clitheroe were level again from the penalty spot. A foul on Lee Spencer presented Stewart Todhunter with the opportunity the former Fleetwood star accepted with ease.

But Clitheroe had not finished giving goals away and midway through the half yet another defensive error allowed Twigg to grab the winner.

Clitheroe manager Dave Burgess said: "We really did give away three poor goals and we probably won't make mistakes like that again -- at least I hope not anyway.

"But this isn't to take anything away from Kidsgrove who looked a good side. It's disappointing to lose on the opening day but let's hope we can now get it out of our systems by picking up our first points of the season at Atherton tomorrow night (Tuesday).

RESULT: CLITHEROE...2 KIDSGROVE...3