Mossley's Academy team opened their account with a hard earned and deserved 1-0 at Radcliffe on Thursday afternoon.

Several new students made their debuts for the Lilywhites and slotted into the squad impressively in a solid and organized display against a physical and direct home side.

The only goal of the game came in the 26th minute when new boy left back Kain Hepburn's free kick was volleyed home from close range by Tcherno Djalo.

Both sides defended solidly thereafter with Cook and Neves outstanding in the heart of defence while keeper Cawthorne was called on to make several decent saves and the central trio of Djalo, Fitton and Lopes, augmented in the second half by Stott worked the midfield well.

Mossley had to dig deep in the second half as Radcliffe tried desperately for an equaliser but the Lilywhites youngsters still remained an attacking threat throughout.

All in all a great start to the new season for the new look Academy team.