SILSDEN have surprised everyone with their positive start to the North West Counties League season – but they are reining in expectations.

The Cobbydalers flirted with relegation until the final month of last season and they were expected to struggle in a tough Premier Division this term.

But they have stunned both outsiders and themselves and, nine games into the new season – almost a quarter of the campaign – they are riding high in third place, having banked 20 points.

Spokesman Jim Rosser said: "It was February last season before we got 18 points on the board!

"We have nicked a couple of games here and there but you can't fault the effort and commitment the lads have shown.

"Andy Geary (manager) has done a fantastic job with what is a very young squad.

"He has mixed it up with a couple of older heads in James Nettleton and Kev Ryan and their experience has been invaluable.

"The other lads play well together because most of them have come through our youth team and they are learning alongside Netts and Kev.

"I dare say we will have to get as many points as possible while things are going well and while we have these players.

"What has happened in the past is that they will get picked off and end up playing for one of our rivals."