Ilkley AFC 5

BRAMHOPE 2

ILKLEY striker Alan Stockdale smashed in four goals as his side overcame local rivals Bramhope in a Harrogate League game onSaturday.

Bramhope rallied to make a game of it on the second-half but by then Ilkley held a comfortable lead. Stockdale had put his side three up by half-time with all his goals created by good movement and plenty of hard work by his team mates.

None more so than when Steve Hall served notice of things to come after Stockdale's pace had unhinged the Bramhope defence in only the fourth minute.

Hall's shot brushed the side netting and then Ilkley had a goal disallowed before they opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Stockdale.

He went on to score again in the 28th and 39th minutes.

Ashley Roberts and Richard Giles in the centre of midfield provided a continuous stream of ammunition for Matt Long and John Sayer on the flanks and they in turn fed Stockdale.

Bramhope had a mountain to climb when they emerged for the second-half but

to their credit they did not wilt under the pressure.

They showed resilience and fought their way back into the game at 3-2.

Bloom was unfortunate and 'keeper Stuart Middleton could only stand and watch as the ball he had parried rebounded off Bloom into the net.

In the 70th minute Bramhope pulled another goal back and memories of the previous week's encounter at Thirsk came flooding back.

Stuart Forrest's men showed they are quick learners and keen to be winners and they answered their touchline critics by finishing in dominant fashion as Stockdale and Long put the game beyond Bramhope's reach with further goals.

Overall this was a fair performance by Ilkley who continue to improve with each game. The side has not fully gelled yet and there is plenty to work on but it will not happen overnight.

Manager Forrest said: 'Plenty of encouragement is what these lads needs. It is good to see a growing following supporting both the senior and junior football teams in the town.'

Match point went to Stockdale with Ashley Roberts and Max Bellwood also on good form.

l On Saturday Ilkley entertain Christ Church Old Boys with a 3 pm kick-off. (Players should meet at Ilkley Cricket Club at 2.15 pm).

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