They were beaten 2-1 on Saturday by visiting Athersley Recreation after a frantic first half at the MPM Stadium.

Athersley took the lead after just 10 minutes when Fin Allen played the ball across goal and James Woodhouse got there just ahead of Ilkley keeper Josh Dickerson to score.

But Town hit back quickly and equalised through Dan Clark-Coates, before immediately forcing a great save from George Bason as they tried to hit the front.

Instead, Athersley regained the lead on 22 minutes when Favour Ogbebor turned the ball home after Nathan Perks’ shot struck the post.

Town fought hard to equalise for the rest of the game, but Bason was in good form and kept them out.

Ilkley have the chance to bounce back tomorrow night at rock-bottom South Leeds, where a win would put them eight points clear of danger.