KEIGHLEY Athletic opened up a five-point gap at the top of the Wharfedale Triangle League Premier Division with a 2-1 win at neighbours Cullingworth Youth.

Cullingworth were missing their two centre halves and had only 11 players available but such was their performance that boss Allan Feather would settle for picking the same 11 for the rest of the season.

Playing down hill in the first half, Athletic had slightly the better of the exchanges and created more chances but excellent defence kept them at bay.

Cullingworth matched the leaders in the second half but two quick goals from James Bailey and Liam McNicol put Keighley in control.

To Youth's credit, they didn't let their heads drop and pulled a goal back through Andrew Seddon.

The result was in doubt until the final whistle but Athletic held out in a match which was a credit to both teams.

Both sides are in Harry Nicholson Trophy action on Sunday, with Athletic hosting Rawdon and Cullingworth at home to Eldwick, when Feather is set to come up against his grandson.

Keighley Town lost their League Cup semi-final with Myrtle Park, going down 1-0 to a goal ten minutes from time despite having the vast majority of play.

Town welcome Yeadon Athletic in the league on Sunday.