Ilkley Make It Two From Two In Away Win At Kendal

Kendal 23 – Ilkley 27

Ilkley made it back-to-back league wins with a narrow 27–23 victory away at Kendal, showing plenty of grit to back up the attacking flair from their opening-day win against York.

In a closely fought first half, Kendal struck first, before Ilkley hit back out wide. The home side extended their lead with a penalty and another score, but the Dalesmen responded on the stroke of half time with a powerful drive and conversion to level things up 17–17.

As at Stacks Field the week before, Ilkley came out strong after the restart. A sharp attack down the left touchline put them ahead for the first time, with a touchline conversion added.

Kendal replied with penalties from distance, but Ilkley’s discipline and accuracy in the key moments proved decisive. A late penalty extended the cushion, and despite Kendal closing the gap with minutes to play, the Dalesmen controlled the final exchanges and closed out the win.

It was a contest Kendal felt they could have edged, but Ilkley’s ability to take chances and keep their composure under pressure made the difference. The 27–23 result leaves the Dalesmen two from two in Regional 1 North East, and showing they can win with both flair and fight.

Next up, Sandal visit Stacks Field and Ilkley will look to turn a strong start into real momentum.