When this tie was arranged four weeks ago, there was eager anticipation that Cleckheaton would have their work cut out to suppress the confidence of the hosts, following two successive promotion seasons and a record at home which opponents respect as well as the regularly inhospitable Woodhead slope.

Fielding eight newcomers, five of whom are 'returning sons', Cleckheaton started confidently and gained a territorial foothold which they maintained for the majority of the first half. Cleck's new look pack of forwards was winning plenty of possession, Matt Burrows dominant in the line and the front five creating a solid platform. Outside, the calm experience of Dom Castle, new fly half Nick Wainwright and player coach Pete Murphy meant that the game was played in the right parts of the field. Several scoring opportunities were squandered but Cleck maintained the pressure as they controlled possession. Tries followed in the 25th, 38th and 40th minutes from Olly Depledge, Ed Chappelow and Carl Mason. All three tries were unconverted but the visitors were in the ascendancy.

The second half was even more satisfying for coach Dave Harrison. Two more well grafted tries playing up the slope from Richard Piper and Ryan Piercy extended the lead and Cleck ran out convincing winners with a performance which will provide confidence for the 26 game league season starting on Saturday at home to newly promoted Rossendale.

Dave Harrison and Pete Murphy have worked hard over the summer to instill the kind of team ethic which all teams work towards but don't always achieve. The difference this season is that players looked comfortable on the ball and the midfield defence and willingness to support in tight situations was exemplary. With great respect to Old Brods harder challenges lay ahead against several sides who have recruited over the summer, but the team looks ready.

The half back combination looked very effective as did its link with centres Murphy and Lauriston and Matt Piper when he entered the fray. Prop and proud new skipper Paul Turner led from the front, although not always legally according to the referee and the crucial decision makers appear to have been recruited. The raw talent of Tom Clough and young back Olly Depledge will both benefit from the experience around them and there are several others who are pushing for a regular place. It's up to them to prove their worth.