Hallmark Security League Division One: Whitchurch Alport 0 Silsden 1

HAVING earned a valuable 0-0 draw at fourth-placed Charnock Richard in midweek, Silsden went one better on Saturday with a fantastic win at third-placed Whitchurch Alport.

The shut-out meant it was the first time the Cobbydalers had kept back-to-back clean sheets this season.

Whitchurch were hoping victory might have propelled them into an automatic promotion spot but

Silsden deservedly came away with three points.

It was an even first half with chances at a premium. A quick free-kick kept Callum Jakovlevs on his toes in what proved to be the only significant time the Silsden No 1 was called into action in a match where the defence – spearheaded by captain Josh Kaine and the influential Dan Illingworth – remained stubborn against a front four who were clearly confident and displayed clever movement and link-up play.

Silsden grew into the game and took the lead with the last action of the first half. In a quick break, in which the Cobbydalers covered ground quickly between both boxes, Will Storrie cut in from the left and played an intelligent ball through to Nicky McNally, who took a touch and finished expertly into the corner from 18 yards.

It was more of the same in the second half as Silsden continued to frustrate Whitchurch, keeping their shape and discipline excellently.

Storrie, who took a significant knock in the build-up to the goal, was replaced by new boy Mark Everingham, who signed from Brighouse Town on deadline day.

Silsden had four chances to kill Whitchurch off. The first one fell to McNally, whose header crashed against the bar from a Ben Cox corner.

Next it was Chris Wademan's turn to lay siege on the home goal. Good build-up play from Josh Eastwood and McNally set Wademan free.

Just as it looked as though he had guided the ball into the net, the goalkeeper managed to claw the ball from behind him and keep it out.

Kyle Hancock replaced a tiring Cox and played a big part in two more openings which saw McNally and Danny Bunch both wriggle through into one-on-one situations but both times the ball was screwed wide.

Whitchurch pressed for an equaliser in the final minutes but were denied by some heroic blocks by Illingworth.

Silsden look to continue their momentum at home to Stockport Town tomorrow night before another tough trip on Saturday when they visit leaders Litherland REMYCA.

The Cobbydalers, who have nine matches next month, also visit Eccleshall on Wednesday, April 5.

Silsden: Jakovlevs, Moses, Vincent, Kaine (c), Illingworth, Cox (Hancock 65), Storrie (Everingham 50), Eastwood, McNally, Wademan (Davis 75), Bunch.