Leigh Genesis got their UniBond Premier League campaign off to a disappointing start with a 2-0 defeat at fellow pre-season favourites Eastwood Town.

Eastwood took the lead in the 23rd minute, a free-kick from the left being headed in towards Ian Holmes who fired past Genesis goalkeeper Steve Dickinson.

As Leigh pushed forward in search of an equaliser, they left themselves vulnerable on the counter-attack, but it was in controversial fashion that the hosts clinched victory in the final minute of the game, substitute Matt Rhead appearing to control the ball with his hand but, with the officials missing the incident, Lindon Meikle chased through and slotted past Dickinson.

With a host of pitch problems at Hilton Park, Leigh’s next two fixtures will take place at Victory Park, home of UniBond Division One side Chorley, with a game against Ashton United tomorrow being followed by a ‘home’ game with Ilkeston Town.

Substitute Chris Baguley grabbed a last-minute equaliser as FC United claimed a point from a thrilling 3-3 home draw against Matlock Town.

Striker Kyle Wilson’s 10th-minute penalty cancelled out Ross Hannah’s early opener before the Rebels new boy grabbed his second minutes later.

Hannah levelled matters before half-time and, when Dene Chopper headed home on 70 minutes, Karl Marginson’s side looked to be heading for a opening-day defeat.

Radcliffe Borough paid the price for missing numerous chances in their 2-0 defeat to Ossett.

Shane Kelsey scored both goals for the visitors.

“We missed a lot of chances,” said Boro boss Gerry Luzcka. “If it had been a boxing match, we would have won on points easily. But that’s football. You pay the price for not scoring goals.”