CARLETON'S Luke Howsen bounced back from injury to down Skipton Town, as the two newly-promoted sides played out a thriller in the Skipton Body Repair Centre Craven League Premier Division.

Visitors Skipton went ahead early on last night but Ben Teal equalised just before the break. A controversial Liam Steadman goal then put Carleton in front after half-time.

They doubled their lead quickly as the prolific Howsen buried a chance, before a battling Skipton side pulled one back.

Howsen was down, and seemingly out, as he was treated for injury by the club's medical staff. With no substitutions remaining though, he battled through the pain and netted a crucial fourth.

Town completed the scoring but that late goal could not prevent them from leaving empty-handed. The away side's scorers were Jake Hart, Andrew Nicholson and substitute Charlie Morris.

Elsewhere, another close battle could develop between Settle United and Silsden Whitestar at the top of the division. The former won the league on goal difference last year and both won by the same margin last night.

Settle go top after thrashing Grassington United 4-1. Aaron Woodhouse netted twice, while Tom Strickland and Nathan Bullock also scored. Jan Ozdoba replied for Grassington.

Whitestar were 3-0 winners, although they had to be patient at Cowling. The scores were level at the break, but second half strikes from Gavin Shearer, Sam Stanfield and Nico Carruiccu ensured the three points.

Finally, Trawden Celtic Juniors edged out Rolls with a 35th minute winner from Jake Bancroft.