The Dalesmen’s disappointment in the manner of their defeat at Harrogate a fortnight ago was shrugged off for this clash with old foes, Driffield, a club cut from the same cloth as Ilkley. As has become the norm this season, the home side had to withstand considerable early pressure before unleashing its potent attacking options and with five first half tries to just one from the visitors, the large well-lunched crowd could be forgiven for expecting more of the same in the se

Following a very brief light shower the match kicked off in bright, sunny weather with referee Tom Hurdley officiating. Ilkley's travelling support was substantial and made their presence known after each superb Ilkley try. Harrogate's pitch was a clear improvement from Ilkley's last visit and held up well. After an early exchange of penalties when Mr Hurdley's whistle made clear who was in charge, Ilkley's Harry Harrison caught Ilkley's kick off and scorched through several

After a disappointing visit to the North East last week, the Dalesmen were anxious to get their show back on the road against a side languishing at the bottom of the table. This is Cleckheaton though, a side that should never be taken lightly, despite their poor start to the season. Sure enough, the visitors starved Ilkley of possession and always looked dangerous when they got close to the Ilkley goal line. The home side was forced into giving penalties away - four in the fi

Ilkley travelled to Blaydon with a good number of supporters on the coach as well as in cars, all hoping to see another entertaining Ilkley victory. However, it was not to be. They met a determined, young Blaydon side who clearly had their sights on a home victory and they set about their task from the outset, running hard and moving the ball quickly between backs and forwards. They kept Ilkley penned in their own half for most of the first half scoring three tries to none us