A GREAT goal by full back Tom Meadows secured victory for Ilkley Town Reserves in a closely fought West Yorkshire League Alliance Two tussle away to Hampsthwaite United Res

In a match played at the The CNG Stadium, home of Harrogate Town, Ilkley came from behind to win 2-1 after an equaliser just before half-time.

Both sides were afforded the privilege of playing in this first-class facility which usually hosts games in the National League North.

The 4G pitch made for a quick game, but Ilkley seemed initially unsure of their touch and an error-strewn first quarter saw Hampsthwaite benefit from uncertainty to take a 16th minute lead.

As the half progressed Ilkley got into their rhythm with the accomplished Robin Layton and Jimmy Ayre beginning to assert control in midfield.

James Brennan hit the woodwork from an Ayre corner, before the home side were caught overplaying across a deep backline in the 43rd minute. Layton pounced and Ilkley were level for the half-time team talk.

The second half saw Ilkley develop a hold on the game with neat interchanges releasing players down the flanks. Meadows broke forward in the 55th minute and after several one/twos found himself free in the box where he completed a classy move with an accomplished finish.

Ilkley then controlled the game for the last quarter and Harry Cooper in goal was rarely troubled.

The home side did have a few long shots and there were a couple of anxious moments with tackles around the edge of the box but the score remained at 2-1 with Ilkley having the stronger threat and Brennan coming close on several occasions.