Ilkley 0 Carlton 4

ILKLEY'S promotion hopes suffered a blow when they they were comfortably beaten by rivals Carlton at Ben Rhydding.

The first half was competitive but both teams cancelled each other out. There was little football on offer and hardly any chances created, the best of which fell to Carlton whose pacey right winger found space in behind and from the tightest of angles struck the crossbar.

This was the highlight of an uninspiring first half from two tentative teams knowing how important a win was.

The first half ended 0-0 and despite not playing well in possession, Ilkley had competed and defended reasonably well and could be hopeful of an improved performance in the second half.

Unfortunately this wasn't to be the case and after 55 minutes they fell behind. The ball was lost in the midfield area and was played forward quickly to the Carlton number 10, who delayed and then played the ball out wide to the left back who stuck a sweet shot into the top corner, 1-0.

From here Ilkley lost their shape and focus in the game, their decision making was poor and in possession they were sloppy.

It was surprising it took Carlton a further 20 minutes to double their lead. They regained possession of the ball inside the Ilkley penalty area, nobody closed the ball down and the Carlton right winger, only ten yards from goal, struck it low into James Hirst's net.

Things went from bad to worse as Ilkley conceded two more goals in the final ten minutes. The latter being an indirect free kick which was well placed, but arguably shouldn't have been given.

Ilkley technically are good enough to compete at the top of the league, however in order to make this count they have to work harder and compete consistently over 90 minutes with their opponents.

They have to learn to stay composed and keep their shape in order to find a way back into the game when they fall behind.

Fortunately the other side at the top of the league have also dropped points meaning Ilkley stay in touch at this moment in time, but with a lot of work to do.

On Saturday it's Wharfedale FA Cup week with Ilkley facing Burley Trojans at the Recreation Ground.