COLNE got their Northern Premier League NW Division campaign off to a winning start at Dunston thanks to Charlie Russell’s first-half penalty.

Both sides showed attacking intent in an even first half and Reds keeper Hakan Burton did well to deal with a series of crosses in to the area.

At the other end, Mamadou Djabi was a threat and after being brought down on the edge of the area, Sam O’Halloran’s free-kick flew just over the crossbar.

Six minutes later, Colne went ahead when Djabi was brought down in the area after racing on to a Jamie Cooke through ball and Russell fired home the resulting spot kick. The Reds had a great chance to increase their lead midway through the half but Ben Unsworth headed Cooke’s corner wide of the target.

And five minutes later, Colne had the Dunston defence in disarray as Djabi drew the keeper out wide of his goal but the resulting cross was scrambled clear.

Dunston upped the pressure early in the second half but Tom Dean and Harry Winstanley made some great clearing headers as the home side launched a series of aerial attacks.

Colne had a great chance to make it 2-0 in the 72nd minute but the home keeper was quick off his line to deny O’Halloran as he raced in on goal.

Despite some late Dunston pressure where they forced a number of fine saves out of Burton, Colne hung on for the win.

They return to action tonight when they host Workington tonight (7.45pm ko).

Clitheroe made it two wins of a two thanks to a 1-0 win over Prescot Cables with William Dent’s goal just past the hour mark sealing victory for David Lynch’s side.

Ramsbottom, who did not play on Saturday, host Pickering Town tonight (7.45pm ko).