Ilkley edge past South Liverpool for an important three points

Ilkley 2 - 1 South Liverpool

On a wet Saturday afternoon, Ilkley held on for a vital victory against South Liverpool at the MPM Stadium, courtesy of two goals from Blake Wood, writes Evan Seaman.

Heading into this fixture, Sam Dexter’s side had lost their last three out of four in all competitions, so a win was much needed here to get their season back on track.

The Baht’atters started the game strongly and were controlling possession nicely but struggled to carve out many clear-cut opportunities.

However, Kevin Gonzalez was looking lively out on the wing, and he was the one who looked like creating a goal.

Not long after the restart though, Ilkley quickly put the record straight when tall striker Blake Wood went clean through on goal before slotting the ball past Lucas Allen to put the hosts in the lead.

Shortly afterwards, Nathan Hunt had a chance to make it two after a cross from Gonzalez, but his header went just wide of the goal.

Then Wood bagged his brace when Gonzalez went on another mazy run with the ball down the left flank before whipping it into the box and Wood did the honours from close range to make it 2-0.

But there was a late fightback from South Liverpool as Adam Beardsworth scored a scrappy goal from a set-play to give them a chance with not long left.

However, Ilkley held on for the three points which should give them a boost heading into the local rivalry against Guiseley AFC in the West Riding County Cup on Tuesday night.

The game is at Nethermoor Park, so it should be a great occasion for Ilkley as they look to boost their reputation further.

Then on Saturday, Ilkley are back on the road as they travel to Ashton Town in the league as they look to build on their 5th place in the table.

Next Home Game: 14 October, 3pm vs Holker Old Boys