Wilmslow 18 Ilkley 36

DESPITE leading heading into the game’s final quarter, Wilmslow Wolves failed to hold Ilkley off on Saturday.

Rick Jones’ men were 18-17 up as the contest moved into its closing stages, but the visitors upped the intensity to head back to Yorkshire with a victory.

The first hour was arguably their best of the Northern Premier season so far, with the unforced errors reduced and a greater amount of pragmatism adopted.

Bob MacCallum booted them in front with a penalty, but tries from Pat Power and Struan Connor soon put the visitors ahead.

MacCallum kicked another penalty to keep Wilmslow in touch before their first try came.

After they kicked to the corner from a penalty, lock Mike Clifford was able to drive over to reduce Ilkley’s lead to just one point before half time.

The Wolves then got their noses in front when Danny Kennedy scored from a lineout.

MacCallum converted, but that was as good as it got.

Wilmslow hardly had a sniff of the ball for the remained of the game as Ilkley ran in three tries – two of them converted – to secure victory.

Jones’ side travel to Kendal on Saturday, kick off 2.15pm.