SILSDEN began life in the lower tier of the Hallmark Security League with a thumping victory – and although a subsequent defeat took the edge off the feel-good factor, insiders at the club remain quietly confident.

Following their relegation last term, the Cobbydalers installed James Gill as manager and he then pulled off a major coup by bringing in Danny Forrest as his playing assistant.

After an FA Cup extra-preliminary round replay defeat at home to Bridlington Town, Silsden thrashed Ashton Town 6-0 at Keighley Road. That was followed by Tuesday's 1-0 home defeat to non-League newcomers Charnock Richard.

Club spokesman Kevin Knappy said: "We had hoped to make our home a fortress; a place where clubs didn't want to come because they feared they would get nothing.

"It hasn't quite panned out that way but after seeing Charnock Richard, I have the feeling that they will be there or thereabouts, so at least we were beaten by a decent side."

Silsden went a goal down in the 13th minute but allowed chance after chance to go begging and the visitors belied their newcomer status in the second half as they dug in to claim the spoils.

Knappy said: "No-one was getting carried away after our 6-0 win over Ashton last Saturday. With due respect to them, we knew that they wouldn't be the best team we will face this season, but it was still a case of back down to earth in midweek.

"We have a few games this season that we have no idea what to expect because we've been in the Premier Division for so long and due to the number of new teams that have come into Division One.

"It all seems like a bit of a conundrum – but Gilly has got a good squad and he's improved us already.

"It might be a bit up and down this season but we've all seen plenty of positives so far and everyone is sure that we'll continue to improve as the season goes on."