ILKLEY arrived at Alnwick with a much-changed side and suffered a heavy 53-0 defeat on a very blustery Saturday afternoon.

The injury situation has denied Ilkley the services of captain Joe Lowes, vice captain Chuckie Ramsay, Ollie Holtham, Harry Harrison and Tom Dickinson. Ed King has departed on his travels and Nathan Hyde, Matt Burke and Louis Fraser were all unavailable.

Nevertheless, Ilkley started brightly against the wind with their defence in good order but not making enough ground in attack.

As the game went on, Alnwick’s big runners capitalised on Ilkley’s mistakes. They made ground and good passing saw them score two tries out wide.

After half an hour, Ilkley were still in the game at 12-0 down and with some hope for the second half when they would be playing with the wind. However, as their injuries mounted and tiredness set in, Alnwick’s scores mounted and the second half brought no relief.

Ilkley did put together some good passing phases, highlighted by a great run from Finn Gateley but errors resulting in turnover ball meant Alnwick kept on top.

Ilkley’s spirit remains resilient and good despite multiple changes each week and the continued loss of players bringing pressure on the second team players brought in.

Unfortunately, Sam Rowntree’ facial injury is likely to keep him out for the rest of the season.

Ilkley play Wirral at home this Saturday. Kick-off is at 2pm.

ANDREW MUNRO