A NEW season and a new format for the League.

For the first time in many years, the League is running with two divisions as the number of clubs has increased to 18.

And it sees the return of inter-divisional games as part of the 25-match season.

The new clubs in this year’s competition are Ireti Athletic, who have moved from the District League, Netherton, Moldgreen and an extra team from Uppermill.

Clubs who have left the League are Kirkburton and Sovereign Sports.

But despite the changes to format it was very much as case of business as usual on the field.

League champions Syngenta Sports showed they were not in the mood to give up their title with a convincing 5-2 victory at Hepworth United.

Harry Wood’s side travelled up the Holme Valley with a strong squad and proved far too tough for the home club.

It was a Bradshaw one-two, as the experienced Charlie grabbed one goal and teenage son Robert grabbed two. The other Syngenta goals came from Senior, while both Hepworth goals were scored by Billy Bland.

Moldgreen Con have improved consistently over the past three years and they were worthy 4-0 winners on the opening day at Berry Brow.

Brow’s very young side held out until the 40th minute when an unfortunate own goal gave Moldgreen the lead, which was doubled before half-time by Nick Townend.

The visitors looked confident throughout the match and it was no surprise when they improved the scoreline with strikes from Townend and Mick Forshaw in the closing minutes.

The day’s top scorers were Bay Athletic.

They are in Division II and ran riot against new boys Ireti, winning 10-4 in Dewsbury.

Netherton, another debutant side, went down 4-3 at home to FC Railway, who had Mallinson (2) and Wilson (2) on the scoresheet.