DUKINFIELD TOWN...0

ELTON FOLD...0

A SCORELESS draw on the opening day of the season away from home is generally regarded as a reasonable result.

When it is against the side that finished runners-up last season, and at a venue where Elton Fold have never gained a solitary point in their four other league visits, then that result suddenly becomes a very good one.

That is what happened on this occasion and it wasn't "backs to the wall" stuff either, as Elton certainly had the better of the few chances that were created, particularly in the second half.

The Tameside club boast two very impressive front men in ex-Shakers reserve team player Mark Crossland and the Division's second leading scorer last term, Steve Schofield, but Elton set their stall out to stifle those two and the tactic worked a treat.

The game plan had to be changed however, as soon as the game got in motion as Crossland dropped back in to midfield, but this was the cue for skipper Stefan Shaw to take up the challenge and he never gave the tricky Dukinfield player an inch of space.

Just as well really considering the way Crossland single-handedly destroyed Elton at the back end of last season! Even when the Dukinfield man was pushed up front late in the game, Elton's Anthony Doran kept the shackles firmly on as Doran's centre back partner Phil Turner had done all the game on Schofield.

Dukinfield had run out of ideas long before then but no so Elton and home 'keeper Jones was far the busier of the two custodians, and two outstanding saves left the Elton contingent wringing their hands.

The first came from one of Elton's new signings, Steve Bray, whose fierce volley from 12 yards was punched away by Jones at full stretch. Then the 'keeper just got his fingertips to Martin Rayner's glancing header and turned it round the foot of the post.

Add to that, two glaring misses from Steve Smith and John Armstrong, both with only the 'keeper to beat, and Elton could have won quite comfortably as their own man between the posts, Steve Crossley, had very little to do except to pick the ball out of the net for two disallowed Dukinfield goals that were clearly offside.

It was a very pleasing performance, especially after the poor results and displays in the pre-season Goldline Trophy games and in friendlies.

Elton weren't carrying a single player and while everyone more than did their bit, special mentions must go to Anthony Doran who was a colossus at the heart of the defence, and also 18-year-old right back John Price, who did a sterling job. Although no one is getting carried away after just one game, it would seem there is plenty to be optimistic about for the season ahead.

The Reserves lost 1-0 at home to Stand Athletic Reserves.

Tomorrow Elton Fold travel to meet champions Stand Athletic, who now play at Haslingden FC's former ground. Elton Fold Reserves also play the champions of their league when East Manchester Reserves are the visitors to Elton Vale. Both kick offs are at 2.30pm.

On Tuesday evening Fold are at home to Atherton Town. Kick off at 6.30pm.

Fold's under-18 team are hoping to strengthen their squad for the coming season in the Bolton Boys Federation A section of their age group. They are looking for a 'keeper of the required standard and a number of outfield players. Anyone interested can ring Phil Hartley on 01706 827380 or Dave Doran on 0161 764 1507.