PHOENIX began their first season in the top flight of the County Amateur Division with a superb 5-1 away victory over Crag Road.

In a tight first half Phoenix took the lead through Joe Bryceland, only to see it wiped out within a minute by an unstoppable volley from Crag's number 10.

Early in the second half Martin Ross scored from close range to regain the lead and 10 minutes later he was on target again, this time from the penalty spot, after a superb pass from Danny Spencer resulted in Ross being felled in the area.

With half an hour to go Crag Road pressed forward, twice going close, but Phoenix stood firm and continued to create chances themselves.

When new signing Dale Hoyle netted the fourth, victory was assured, and with six minutes remaining Richard Waddington made it five.

Steeton also started their campaign well with a 2-1 victory over Morley Town, but Keighley slipped to an opening day defeat as Dudley Hill scraped home by a single goal.

Phoenix maintained their 100 per cent record on Wednesday evening with a 4-0 win over Tyersal.

Although the home side looked dangerous in the early stages Phoenix took the lead after 15 minutes, Dale Hoyle tormenting the home defence and providing a tap-in for Danny Spencer.

Playing attractive football, Phoenix created numerous chances before eventually netting the second goal four minutes from half time. Strong running from left back Rob Horton paved the way for Dale Hoyle round the keeper and side-foot the ball home.

After the interval Tyersal looked a different team, pegging Phoenix back and testing the impressive Mark Linninghan in the Phoenix goal several times.

Midway through the half, after soaking up sustained Tyersal pressure, Phoenix broke from defence to score the decisive third goal. Mark Gillmartin latched on to a Steve Lister through ball, beating the keeper at the second attempt.

Barely two minutes later Dale Hoyle confidently stroked in his second of the evening to complete the scoring.

Results

Crag Road 1, Phoenix 5

Dudley Hill 1 Keighley 0

Morley Town 1, Steeton 2

Phoenix Res 1 Heckmondwike Town 3

Steeton Res 1 Ardsley Celtic 5

Fixtures

Field v Phoenix

Phoenix II v Yorkshire Saints

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