PILKINGTON FC kicked off the Cheshire League season with a home victory against a resilient Halebank team.

They got a great start at Ruskin Drive when Luke Sephton headed home Ian Frazer’s free kick after two minutes.

The first half was played at a frantic pace, with both sides creating openings, and Halebank were unlucky not to go into half-time level when they squandered two chances.

Pilks started to control the possession in the second half and they extended their lead on 55 minutes when Sephton turned swiftly and drove down the channel before squaring the ball for Daniel Norris to finish.

With 15 minutes left Sefton drove through again and rounded the keeper, who dragged him down.

Captain Graham Boylan duly converted the penalty to make it 3-0.

Pilks instantly switched off though and a simple long ball from the kick-off caught them out and Halebank pulled one back.

Nevertheless it was job done for Pilks, who might not have been perfect but played with a sense that they mean business this season.

They head to Windle Labour, who are awaiting their first win of the new term, on Wednesday night.