NORTHWICH Victoria’s winning streak stopped at six thanks in large part to the hosts’ goalkeeper Dan Lowson.

He stood between the visitors’ and a rout.

Ilkeston, unbeaten in front of their own fans this season, presented their shot-stopper with a Player of the Month prize before kick-off.

He proved why in no time.

Lowson pulled off superb saves to deny Lee Elam, Michael Connor and Mark Danks during the early exchanges, while at the other end David Graham spurned a half chance for Kevin Wilson’s men.

Danks then got on the end of Ryan Brown’s cross only to volley over the bar.

With Vics in control the home side were restricted to a couple of breakaways before they were reduced to ten men when defender Charlie O’Loughlin rashly headbutted Jonny Allan off the ball.

But the hosts were still able to maintain parity after Mat Bailey headed wide and Danks shot wide of a gaping goal.

After the break Ilkeston, conquerors of neighbours Eastwood Town in the FA Cup in midweek, could have taken a surprise lead after Elam lost possession on the edge of his own penalty area.

Fortunately for him Curtis Aspden did well to get down and turn Neal Hooks’ shot around the post.

Andy Preece’s play-off hopefuls got the breakthrough they deserved when referee Darren England awarded a penalty after Jake Beecroft handled.

Danks scored his 14th goal of the season from the spot, getting his name on the scoresheet for the seventh successive encounter.

Ilkeston replied with a penalty of their own after Mike Aspin had sent Sam Duncum tumbling.

Robins top scorer Amari Morgan-Smith gave Aspden no chance with his free hit.

Vics continued to dominate, but could not get the better of Lowson.

He produced a further series of stunning saves to deny Allan from a header then subs Jon Newby and Wayne Riley.

Connor was thwarted again too.

And, when Allan’s header did finally defeat the keeper, Kieran Murphy was on hand to clear off the line.

Vics Aspden (GK), Aspin, Bailey, Grand, Ryan Brown, Connor, Herring (Newby 72), D’Laryea, Elam (Riley 65), Allan, Danks
Subs not used Kerr, Vaughan, Horrocks
Goal Danks 52 (penalty)
Booked D’Laryea, Bailey, Danks (fouls)

Attendance 547