IT WAS always going to be a struggle for Decorpart and the fact that they could only muster up 10 players made it a whole lot worse.

Injuries, holidays and a general lack of interest meant that the Burnley team were already under strength going in to the second league game of the season.

In contrast, new-look Craven had the full compliment, including three substitutes all eager to make an impression.

The fact that Decorpart kept Craven at bay for nearly 30 minutes was testimony to some dogged defending by Glen Munroe, Marco Brzozowski -- not to mention the heroics of Josh Parry in goal.

There were few positives Decopart could take out of this match but the performances of the two defenders, the keeper and Craig Blackburn in midfield and Paul Carey up front were among them.

Craven on the otherhand have every reason to be enthusiastic about what lies ahead.

For a team playing Second Division football last season, showed that they could challenge Padiham for honours. The opening goal highlighted how well they can play, conjuring up a goal that even 11 players would find hard to keep out.

Aaron Barnes and midfield play-maker, Gavin Ellione, exchanged quick passes, with Ellione sliding the perfect ball inside Decorpart left back, Mick Newstubb, for Richard Gisbourne to race on to, skilfully step around the keeper before drilling the ball home.

Gisbourne then added a second, converting Jonny Forset's deep cross, before turning provider to set up Chris Rothwell to side foot home from six yards.

Gisbourne completed a first half hat-trick with Ellione again providing the ammo and the striker nipped in to tuck the ball home.

As expected, Decorpart offered little in way of an attacking threat with a solitary strike from Shane McCormack forcing Baz Stott in to a routine save.

Craven extended their lead soon after the restart when Sean Spencer headed home a rare goal after latching on to a fine cross from Mark Simpson.

Ralphs got on the scoresheet, with a close range effort, before the skilful Paul Bulmer cracked home a long range effort.

Craven found time to add one more when substitute Mick Wynn rose to head home a Barnes corner.

If they can keep this side together, then the season promises much for Craven. For Decorpart on the otherhand, they just want to field a full strength team!