SILSDEN saw their Northern Counties East League Premier Division promotion dreams take a hit on Saturday, as they lost 1-0 at mid-table Knaresborough Town.

Silsden dominated the early stages, Sumaili Cissa hitting the post and Talent Ndlovu diverting an Ellis Hudson free-kick just wide.

There was a triple chance for the Cobbydalers after 18 minutes, with Lewis Gardner's shot saved and Joe Crosby seeing the rebound blocked, before Hudson fired the loose ball over the crossbar.

Silsden goalkeeper Sam Kelly was forced into action for the first time when his opposite number's long clearance took a wicked bounce and almost went straight in.

But though Kelly avoided any embarrassment then, he was left red-faced moments later.

In the swirling wind, he spilled a corner, with the ball dropping for Knaresborough's Philip Milson to tap home.

Carlton Pownall's superb block stopped the hosts from doubling their lead, before Hudson bent a free-kick inches off target.

In a quiet second half, Silsden went close with 15 minutes to go, as Ndlovu sent a long-range effort just wide.

There were two late chances for Cobbydalers substitute Alex Stewart, but he was unable to put either of them on target.

The defeat leaves Silsden seven points off second place, the sole promotion play-off place, though they still have a game in hand on the team currently occupying that spot, Winterton Rangers.