PILKINGTON FC were knocked off Cheshire League Division One top spot by second-placed Daten 2-0.

Daten showed more aggression and desire as Pilks’ nine-match unbeaten run ended.

In the first half-hour, Daten dominated all the possession and were stronger in the tackle and quicker all over the pitch.

They were unlucky not to be a few goals ahead and it was Rob Cork who came to Pilk’s rescue as he pulled off a few stunning close-range saves.

Pilks rallied themselves with 10 minutes left of the half and managed to muster a few half chances.

Ian Frazer’s shot was deflected onto the bar and Graham Boylan steered Connah Kilgallon’s scuffed shot wide.

The second half turned out to be a more even affair.

Pilks enjoyed more possession but still didn’t offer much going forward as they struggled to find an answer to unlocking the well organised Daten defence.

The deadlock was broken on 60 minutes when Pilks failed to deal with a clearance and a 25-yard strike from McLoughlin rifled into the top corner.

A succession of Pilks corners came and went but all they could muster was Luke Sephton’s shot that hit the defender before bouncing clear off the bar.

As Pilks pressed for the equaliser they became more open and with nine minutes left Massey cut inside to beat Cork and extend Daten’s lead.