Ilkley AFC 4

Ilkley Junior Youth 2

ILKLEY AFC progressed to the quarter-finals of the Wharfedale FA Challenge Cup following a powerful second-half performance against the newly formed Ilkley Youth side enjoying its first season in open age soccer.

A keenly contested game was played out on a poor surface and with so much local pride at stake it was no surprise that it was a scrappy affair.

Clearly the underdogs, the Juniors rose to the challenge of taking on a team from many divisions higher. Indeed, they matched Ilkley for the final 20 minutes of the first-half and clawed their way back into the game.

Goals from Stockdale and Kelly gave Ilkley a comfortable lead after only 18 minutes. The home side also had a goal controversially disallowed for an infringement on Peter Taylor, the Junior's 'keeper.

The Ilkley AFC midfield of Max Bellwood, John Sayers, Richard Giles and player manager Stuart Forrest ran the show. Confidence was the major factor in the midfield, particularly in the second-half.

The Juniors received a boost in the 30th minute when Stuart Middleton failed to hold on to a well struck shot from 25 yards. Striker Joe Horne pounced to give the youngsters new hope.

Ilkley became frustrated with the decisions of a referee who rarely let the game flow.

The youngsters then levelled matters. A flick past the 'keeper saw the Ilkley players appeal in vain for off-side but Horne grabbed his second goal.

At 2-2 it was the favourites who seemed the more relieved when the half-time whistle blew. By fighting back level at the break the senior players were given a reminder of the potential and determination of the Juniors' players.

The second-half saw a much better performance from an Ilkley senior side now playing into the wind. Forrest came off and was replaced by John Sayers. His position on the right was taken by Chris Mynett. Steve Hall made a welcome return from injury, exchanging positions with striker Kelly.

The passing was more fruitful and defenders Matt Long and Andy Bloom made some searching runs forward. With Taylor and Marsh mopping up at the back, more attacking options opened up.

Giles, Long and Hall linked well, providing Bellwood with the chance to cross for Mynnett to hammer a half volley into the roof of the net.

Ilkley put the game out of their opponents reach 10 minutes from time - with probably the best goal of the game. Left-back Matt Long picked the ball up in his own half and fed Bellwood. His cross found the head of Mynnett who made it 4-2.

The Youth back four of Dixon, Beaumont, Houlston and Hammond along with midfielders Rishworth and McTigue competed superbly. Joe Horne took his goals well and 'keeper Peter Taylor grew in confidence after a shaky start.

Ilkley AFC now face a mouthwatering home tie against Burley Trojans. The Junior Youth team were gallant losers, beaten in the end by strength, experience and two stunning goals from Chris Mynnett.

Ilkley's m atch points were shared by Bellwood and Long while the Junior's award went to Mark Houlston.

Ilkley manager Stuart Forrest said:'The Youth side were in no mood to give in without a fight, continuing to work hard. The two lads at centre-back look good prospects for the future.'

Juniors' manager Dave Houlston said: 'Despite the disappointment of losing several of my younger players showed they were already comfortable playing at this level.'

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.