Hunslet FC 4 Ilkley Town 0

Ilkley never recovered from the shock of conceding a goal in the first minute as they were beaten by the West Yorkshire League Division One leaders.

They also gifted their opponents a crucial second goal after a spirited comeback.

Without the influential Andy Bloom through injury and still missing James Winward from midfield, Ilkley lacked bite and leadership.

They did play some neat football on a small soggy pitch, but it was Hunslet who showed greater determination throughout the game.

Having been reminded of the importance of a solid start, Ilkley were a goal down after 60 seconds when Groves turned inside Dave Hancock and cut inside the box unchallenged before thumping a shot past James Hirst.

For the next 40 minutes, Ilkley more than matched their opponents, having more territorial advantage and possession, yet Hunslet always looked dangerous on the break and more committed in the challenge.

A near-post header by Adam Davey from Joe Hendrie’s corner needed a firmer contact as it flew past the far-post and the best chance of the half for Ilkley fell to top-scorer Phil Thommesen who side-footed straight at Cromack in the Hunslet goal from six-yards.

The home side favoured the direct approach with Cromack’s long clearances a key weapon that caused some problems for the Ilkley defence where Darren Munday and Ben Dexter competed well against difficult opponents.

A 1-0 deficit at half-time did not appear insurmountable, especially as Ilkley had a solid 40 minute period after the goal, with Davey being a constant problem for the home team.

The opening skirmishes in the second-half were as expected with the home side firm in the tackle and Ilkley trying to keep possession and play through midfield.

However, the physical power of Hunslet’s midfield pairing meant Ilkley found it increasingly hard to generate any sustained forward momentum, and then disaster struck.

A surge forward by Grayson was untracked and his speculative shot went through the hands of Hirst and into the net.

Stung by this setback, some Ilkley players began to shirk their responsibilities, and the home side added two more goals in the final ten minutes, one from the penalty-spot after Hirst and Hancock got into a muddle in the box.

While the 4-0 scoreline flattered Hunslet, they did show more endeavour and commitment throughout the game.

Credit to Ilkley Town players for continuing to play passing football in difficult conditions and there is a need to learn from games such as this one if the side is to maintain its push for promotion.

The players’ resolve will be tested in then next three games, starting with a Wharfedale Cup semi-final against Rawdon OB at Ben Rhydding on Saturday (1.30pm), followed by two tough league games versus Stanley and Horbury in subsequent weeks.