Determined Ilkley earn 3 points

Ilkley came out as winners on a wet August afternoon at the MPM.

The scoring was opened on the 16th minute when Blake Wood was brought down on the edge of the box. This gifted Ilkley a free kick from close range. Joe Edmonds stepped up and smashed it into the bottom right corner past Ashton goalkeeper James Chew.

Ashton had an opportunity from a corner which was well dealt with by goalkeeper Jordan Moorhouse. Concern from the bench as Edmonds went to ground resulting in the referee to pause the game. Thankfully he managed to get up and continue.

Blake Wood hit the bar with a clean strike from the edge of the box only to find the feet of Tom Smith who netted the rebound to give the Bahtatters a two goal advantage. Sam Dexter would've been relieved to get in at the break with a two goal cushion.

Unfortunately an already stretched Ilkley squad gave the boss a headache before half time with an injury to Blake Wood who had to be replaced by Ben Clarkson.

The 2nd half began with difficult conditions as the rain began to pour down. Jordan Moorhouse made a fantastic save as Ashton pushed to get back in the game tipping it over the bar.  

Tom Smith had an opportunity headed of the line in what was the best chance of the half which continued to see very little goal mouth action from either side.

Ashton found it difficult to break down an Ilkley side who were determined to hold onto their two goal lead after Wednesdays days frustrating comeback from Darwen at the Anchor Ground.

The Referee blew his whistle a relief for those in attendance as this at times was a difficult watch. The Bah'Tatters will be relieved to keep their unbeaten start to the season in what was a hard fought contest.

Ilkley Manager Sam Dexter reflected on the  game

"We were far from our best today but a win is what matters. Ashton Town
caused us a lot of problems in the first half & it could easily have been different. But credit to our finishing. The second half our players were resolute and defended very well to secure the win."