WHAT a day to lose your first match of the season.

Haslingden Juniors, who have beaten all before them, came unstuck against a determined Eagles team who simply wanted to win more.

It always promised to be a tight affair between two of the best teams in the league -- and so it proved.

And in the end, it was Jake McLean superbly taken near post flick which seperated the sides. The speedy striker's performance typified that of his team-mates -- full of running and never gave up the fight. Not to say Haslingden were not up for it either.

Skipper Elliot Johnstone looked strong and composed in midfield, winger Nick Aston caused problems down the left while keeper Ross Hepburn played a blinder.

Hepburn was called in to early action to beat away a shot from Tommy Doyle before Aston flashed a shot across goal at the other end after good work from Jak Howarth.

But Eagles were soon in the lead when John Kearn raced clear down the right and whipped in a cross that McLean tucked away at the near post.

Aston fired another shot just across the goal before McLean again went close when he cut inside his marker but fired straight at Hepburn.

The keeper then pulled off a superb save early in the second half when McLean beat the Haslingden defence for pace but could not beat Hepburn who bravely blocked his shot. Haslingden pushed forward looking for an equaliser and Jake Bramwell forced Matthew Lambe in to a smart save down at his post before Max Nelson produced a great tackle to deny Jake Neary a clear run in on goal.

With Haslingden pushing forwad, Eagles had the opportunity to counter attack and McLean fired narrowly wide before Hepburn produced a stunning late double save to keep out shots from Jordan Fielding and the lively McLean.

Blackburn and Darwen Junior League under nines Cup Final

Blackburn Eagles...1 Haslingden Jnrs Red...0