PILKINGTONS negotiated another tricky game to move back into second place.

They started the game cautiously with their first real opportunity coming after 15 mins when Sephton’s low cross was deflected away from Matty Taylor who was waiting to tap it in.

On 22 mins, Pilks had their best chance of the half when Sephton blasted over with only the keeper to beat.

Grappenhall were strong opposition and on 28 mins, Cork pulled off a great save to keep the scores level.

A few mins before the half, Frazer’s power drive was heading for the top corner but the Grappenhall keeper managed to tip it round the post.

Pilks came out in the second half knowing they needed a bit of quality to take control of this game.

On 50 mins, Taylor managed to find a bit of space in the box before curling the ball into the bottom corner. Further chances fell to Taylor and Smailes before Pilks doubled their lead on 60 mins. Sephton delivered to Taylor who finished for his 36th goal of the season.

Two mins later and a simple ball over the top let the Grappenhall forward in to pull one back. This gave Grappenhall some encouragement and they threatened the Pilks goal again but Cork pulled off another good save to preserve the lead.

With seven minutes left, Higham sealed the game for Pilks when he drove at the defence and finished from the edge of the box.

Another hard fought victory that sets Pilks up nicely for next week’s important derby game away at Billinge.