It has been a busy time at the New Manor Ground in the last few weeks. Despite much speculation Nigel Jemson was appointed Manager of Ilkeston Town Football Club with Craig Gaunt as his assistant. The announcement came as a bit of a surprise because although results have improved some of the recent performances have been poor. The club also mentioned the quality of the applicants for the post. However Jemson has got the nod and even if the foreseeable future cannot be measured it will be interesting to see if he can continue to encourage the team to play passing football and move them up the table.

On Sunday 30th October there will be a charity game between Ilkeston Town Supporters and a Legends Eleven. The admission is free and the proceeds of the various raffles and auctions will go to charity. The game has aroused a lot of interest and even rivals Grantham Town will be represented as most of the Ilson Legends team would be able to turn out for a Grantham Legends team as well.

Blackwell Miners Welfare’s defence continue to take a battering conceding six against Barton Old Boys and Heanor Town and then five against us. On Saturday they let in nine at AFC Barnsley. Mark Hatton their keeper is an ex Robin.

After a recent England game viewed through an alcoholic haze in the bar somebody put to me that its a pity there was no Ilson players on the pitch. Then looking through an old Rothmans I noticed that one if the England players had actually had an ex Robin as a team mate. Duncan Payne also let me know of a second and then I found this was to be a false lead but in doing so found two others. Can anyone out there name the three ex Robins and the two England regulars.

Answers soon!!!

Since the resignation of Phil Stant Ilkeston have moved away from the bottom of the table but have also lost their ten month unbeaten home run. Caretaker managers Nigel Jemson and Craig Gaunt have made no secret of their desire to have the job on a more permanent basis. The closing date for applications is next Friday and it is thought that there have been some big name applications. There has also been many rumours about who has applied but no official confirmation from the club about the identity of the potential candidates.

On Tuesday Ilkeston play Blackwell Miners Welfare in the Derbyshire Senior Cup. The Robins now have to enter the competition at an earlier rather than receive a bye to the later rounds. We have not played Blackwell before but their 6-0 defeat at Heanor Town on Saturday will have not filled the Blackwell team with confidence.

Ex Robins in the news include Aaron O’Connor who has scored two hat tricks in a week for Gresley Rovers. Ilkeston face O'Connor on Saturday and will be hoping he has an off day. His second hat trick was in a 4-3 defeat at Spalding United who include ex Robins Mark Harbottle and Danny Holyoak in their ranks. It was a good game for ex Robin spotters because as well O’Connor the Moatmen also fielded Micky Lyons, Tony Hemmings and David Holmes in their squad.

Elsewhere Saul Deeney who had a brief loan spell at the New Manor ground a few years back has signed for Burton Albion and helped the Brewers to an impressive 3-1 victory over title favourites Stevenage Borough. Burton also had ex Robin Andy Todd on the bench.

Phil Stant finally admitted defeat in his bid to kick start the Robins season by resigning on Monday night. His assistant Ernie Oliver has also left and on Tuesday night the team was picked by senior players Craig Gaunt and Nigel Jemson whilst Andy Worral (pictured right) looked after things on the bench.

The news had a positive effect on the team as they turned in an inspired performance to defeat the inform Wakefield & Emley. Mick Goddard scored both goals in a two-nil win. Fans will now be hoping that the club can quickly appoint a successor so that Ilkeston can continue to win and stay away from the bottom of the UniBond League Premier Division.

Rumoured candidates for the post have been many already but Nicky Law and David Lloyd appeared to be fans preferred choice. Other names mentioned have included Nigel Jemson, Paul Groves, John Barton, Bryan Chambers, Nigel Clough and even Carlton Palmer.

Ilkeston Town's season plumbed new depths as they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Southern League Western Division Solihull Borough 3-0 on Saturday and were then greeted by the news that Radcliffe Borough had drawn with Guiseley therefore condemning the Robins to bottom place in the UniBond League Premier Division. In midweek Ilkeston lost to Witton Albion 3-1 and to make things worse the inspirational midfielder Scott Bonsall (pictured right) was stretchered off with a very nasty looking knee injury which could sideline him for the next six weeks.

 Manager Phil Stant will be hoping for some better luck when they face Wakefield Emley on Tuesday night at the New Manor ground.

Ilkeston Town drew a blank against in form Blyth Spartans and lost 2-1 to league leaders North Ferriby United on Wednesday night. Ilkeston were sunk by goals from Gary Bradshaw and Jamie Waltham with Justin Jenkins getting a consolation goal. The draw against was the first 0-0 at the New Manor Ground since we drew a bank against Halesowen Town in November 2003. It also extended the Robin's unbeaten un at home to 14 games the last reverse being a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Kendal town on 11th December 2004.

The Robins also allowed Ryan Hindley to look for another club after the player failed to gain a regular place in the Ilkeston line up this season. Ryan has not been settled for some time and perhaps a change of scenery is just the thing he needs to kick start his career

Ilkeston Town have been drawn away to either Solihull Borough or Bedworth United in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup. The tie will be played on September 24th and the venue will depend on the outcome of the replay between the two teams on Wednesday night. Solihull and Bedworth drew 1-1 on Saturday and the replay will be played at Damson Park which can be contacted by ringing 0121 705 6770. 

The Robins have played both teams in the FA Cup before. In 1971 they lost to Bedworth United 1-2 at the Old Manor ground and as recently as 1999 we beat Solihull Borough 4-3 in a game played at the home of Redditch United. The game was noted for the fact that Paul Raynor scored with a shot from at least 45 yards and the fact that there was a wedding reception on at the time in their clubhouse which was also for a short spell also open to the travelling Ilkeston fans. I can never Raynor celebrating his goal to the strains of 'Agadoo'. 

The last time Ilkeston met either team in the league was in the final season in the Southern league. On 24th April 2004 the Robins beat Solihull Borough 10 with a goal from Chris Thompson (pictured above waiting to pounce at the far post) and a few weeks earlier they also beat Bedworth United 2-0 with strikes from Mark Lever and Craig Swinscoe. Swinscoe, Darren Knowles, David Jervis and Ryan Hindley are the only players still at Ilkeston who played in both games.

Other ties involving local sides include:-

Worksop Town v Witton Albion

St Helens or Northallerton  v Alfreton Town

Bromsgrove rovers v Hinckley united

Chasetown v Belper Town

Eastwood town v Cambridge City

Matlock town v Corby Town

Leek Town v Grantham Town

Nantwich Town v Hucknall Town

Ilkeston Towns pre season preparation started to take on a more positive feel with a draw at Long Eaton and a morale boosting victory at home to Leicester City. Several players were missing from the Leicester City game although Ryan Hindley is back from holiday but was stranded on the M1 and David Jervis is still not fully fit. Ilkeston now have players signed nineteen players on for the new season and the full squad looks like this Scott Bonsall, Richard Brewer, John Burns, Mark Clifford, Craig Gaunt, Mick Goddard, Ryan Hindley, Gareth Holmes, Colin Hoyle, Nigel Jemson, Justin Jenkins, David Jervis, Darren Knowles, Ryan Ludlam, Craig Swinscoe, Gary Townsend, Ross Turner and Matthew Turner.

Ilkeston Town suffered two heavy defeats in their first pre season games against strong opposition. On Tuesday they were beaten 7-2 by a lively Nottingham Forest side which included a number of experienced players who are presently on the transfer list. However youngster Spencer Weir-Daley (pictured left scoring his first goal) scored of Forest's goals and looked an excellent prospect.  On Saturday the Robins entertained Hinckley United and again lost this time 4-1. Manager Phil Stant who was unable to attend both of the opening games will be hoping for a more favourable result against Long Eaton United on Saturday although the scoreline against Hinckley did flatter the opposition with two of their goals being scored in the closing stages of the game.

At the time of writing Ilkeston Town have registered the following players for next season:- Scott Bonsall, Richard Brewer, John Burns, Mark Clifford, Craig Gaunt, Mick Goddard, Ryan Hindley, Justin Jenkins, Darren Knowles, Ryan Ludlam, Craig Swinscoe, Gary Townsend, Ross Turner and Matthew Turner. More players are expected to be registered in the next few weeks and we will keep you posted on developments.

Ilkeston Town's friendly against Southwell City on Wednesday 27th July has been postponed. 

Ex Robins in the news include Ged Doherty who exceptionally well against Liverpool in the Champions League ( It would be interesting to compile a list of ex Robins who have played in the Champions League and its forerunner the European Cup) and Christian Moore a legend whilst at the New Manor Ground but has now signed for Kettering Town.

Ilkeston Town started training in the blistering heat today. On parade were many familiar faces plus a number of new signings.

Scott Bonsall, Ryan Ludlam, Gary Townsend and Matt Turner were joined by the majority of the squad that won promotion last season and members of Andy Worralls successful reserve team. Manager Phil Stant and his assistant Ernie Oliver made it clear there would be a few more signings before the Robins kick off their season with a very tough test away at Whitby Town in six weeks time.

On Monday Ilkeston Town’s squad will attend a civic reception at Ilkeston Town Hall to mark their promotion last season.

The New Manor Ground is an impressive sight at the moment with the pitch in excellent condition and the new perimeter fence almost complete. It is obvious that a lot of investment is being ploughed into the ground and playing staff as Ilkeston Town look to the gain their second promotion in a row.

One player unlikely to be playing at the New Manor Ground is Steve Chettle who has announced his retirement after a long battle against a number of niggling injuries. All at the WhiteBallProject wish Steve well in his future career as a coach.

Ilkeston Town have despite all the rumours signed four new players for the coming season. 

Ryan Ludlam (pictured left) has joined from local rivals Belper Town. Ryan is the brother of ex Robin Craig Ludlam and started his career as a trainee at Sheffield United. He joined Worksop Town in 1999 but switched to Droylsden in June of last year before quickly moving on to Buxton. Ryan then signed for Belper Town in November 2004. Like his brother Ryan is a full back.

Matt Turner has joined from Eastwood town. The Nottingam born 23 year old nearly signed for us last season after impressing when Eastwood played the Robins. Matt started out as a trainee at Nottingham Forest and then joined West Bromwich Albion on a free transfer in January 2001. Had a spell on loan at Danish club Helforge and then signed permanently for another Danish club Koge Boldklub. Matt returned to England and signed for Hednesford Town two seasons ago. Matt is a wide midfielder and is an impressive capture for the Robins.

Ilkeston's third signing is Worksop legend Gary Townsend. Gary is another wide player and has a reputation for scoring spectacular goals. Gary spent twelve years years at Worksop and was rewarded with a testimonial last season.

The last signing for the time being is Stalybridge Celtic captain Scott Bonsall. Scott started in non league football playing for Goole Town and Eastwood Town before moving on to Hednesford Town where he played in the Conference. In July 2001 he joined Harrogate Town before joining Stakybridge Celtic initially on loan. Despite a serious injury within 20 minutes of his debut he was offered a permanent deal with Stalybridge. Scott is described as a tough tackling midfielder/defender and should be a very important part of the Robins push or Northern Premier League domination next season.

Prospective signing Mark Camm had a change and has returned to King's Lynn. Des Walker has of yet not signed for Ilkeston but is training with Mansfield Town and another rumoured target Mark Godber who has been transfer listed by Alfreton Town is thinking over a move to Worksop Town.

Ilkeston Town have confirmed a series of nine pre season fixtures starting with a home tie against relegated Nottingham Forest and culminating in an away tie at Shepshed Dynamo.

Tuesday 19th July v Nottingham Forest  HOME K.O. 7.30
Saturday 23rd July  v Hinckley United  HOME K.O. 3.00
Tuesday 26th July  v Lincoln City HOME K.O. 7.30
Wednesday 27th July  v Southwell City AWAY K.O.7.45
Saturday 30th July v Tamworth HOME K.O. 3.00
Tuesday 2nd August  v  Rainworth MW AWAY K.O. 7.30
Saturday 6th August v Gedling Town AWAY K.O. 3.00
Tuesday 9th August v Derby County HOME K.O. 7.30
Saturday 13th August v Shepshed Dynamo AWAY K.O. 3.00

After a bit of a close season break the WhiteBallProject is starting to gear up for next season. The club have announced that Richard Lucas, Mark Lever, Liam Walshe, John Knapper, David Holmes and Pat Lyons will not be playing for Ilkeston Town next season. Liam Walshe (picture left) was the biggest surprise because he had become a vital cog in the Robins line up. However he has decided to take a year off so he can go back packing. Phil Stant has informed the WhiteBallProject that he is negotiation with other players at the moment.

Ex Robin Russell Cooke had the unfortunate honour of failing to convert the deciding penalty in the FA Trophy final between Hucknall Town and Grays Athletic. Also in the Hucknall squad were Chris Timons, Simon Brown and Andy Todd. Grays Athletic also had an ex Robin on board in the form of assistant manager Scott Barrett.

Another old boy John Burns has been released by Hinckley United. The Knitters have made some big signings over the summer and the ex Forest man did not fit into their plans.

Ilkeston Town secured the second automatic promotion spot when they beat Chorley today. Ryan Hindley scored the winner after only eight winners when Mick Goddard robbed a defender rounded the keeper and squared the ball for Hindley to score. North Ferriby overcame Mossley and therefore go up champions. AFC Telford, Willenhall Town, Kendal Town and Eastwood Town will now slug it out in the play offs.

Ilkeston Town 2004-05

Left to right, Back row - Justin Jenkins, John Knapper, Chris Thompson, Mark Clifford, Mick Goddard, Richard Lucas, Gareth Holmes, Liam Walshe, Tony Brown, David Holmes and David Jervis. 

Front row - Ryan Hindley, Chris Dolby, Craig Swinscoe, Young Boozer, Ross Turner, Darren Knowles, Nigel Jemson, Craig Gaunt and Colin Hoyle.

For more pictures of the after match celebrations click here>>>>  and for pictures from the awards ceremony click here>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is in the UNIBOND PREMIER DIVISION sometime in August!!!!

Apart from the big one against the Supporters on Thursday. 

Craig Gaunt scored his first ever goal for Ilkeston Town and set up in a thrilling climax to the season on Saturday. The Robins beat Shepshed Dynamo 1-0 with Gaunt's goal coming just ten minutes from time. Ilkeston Town can now seal automatic promotion if they beat Chorley and if North Ferriby lose at Mossley the Robins even be crowned Champions.

Check out who plays in the final weeks WhiteBallProject Run In Click here>>>>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is at home to Chorley on Saturday 30th April and is a 3pm kick off.

Ilkeston Town rode their luck and kept their automatic promotion hopes alive with a hard earned point at Gresley Rovers. Ex Robin Aaron O'Connor put the Moatmen ahead after eight minutes. Ilkeston put pressure on the Gresley defence after the break and Craig Swinscoe got on the end of a clever Mark Clifford flick after 59 minutes. Gresley finished the stronger team and had the best chances but the Robins hung on for what is in view of the other results in the division an excellent point.

FOR MATCH REPORT Click here>>>>

Check out who plays in the final weeks WhiteBallProject Run In Click here>>>>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is away at Shepshed Dynamo on Tuesday 26th April and is a 7.45pm kick off.

Justin Jenkins made a fairy tale return to Ilkeston Town's first team with two goals in the Robins 2-1 win over in form Mossley. Mossley opened the scoring through Goodeve on three minute Jenkins replied after six minutes and provided the winner in the 89th minute

FOR MATCH REPORT Click here>>>>

Check out who plays in the final weeks WhiteBallProject Run In Click here>>>>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is away at Gresley Rovers on Saturday 23rd April and is a 3pm kick off.

Ilkeston Town had to settle for a share of the points when hey drew 0-0 with lowly Warrington Town. Fortunately for the Robins both Willenhall Town and North Ferriby lost  keeping alive the chance of automatic promotion.

FOR MATCH REPORT and PICTURES click here>>>>

On Wednesday Ilkeston drew 2-2 with Brigg Town. Stuart Ainsley gave Brigg an 18 minute lead only for Nigel Jemson to equalise two minutes later. Ilkeston thought they had secure all three points when Ryan Hindley scored with seven minutes to go but heartbreakingly Lee Cochrane headed the equaliser in added time.

FOR MATCH REPORT click here>>>>

Check out who plays in the final weeks WhiteBallProject Run In Click here>>>>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is at home against Mossley on Tuesday 19th April and is a 7.45 kick off.

Ilkeston Town maintained their push for a promotion with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Colwyn Bay. Nigel Jemson secured the points when he scored with the rebound from his saved penalty in the dying minutes of the first half.

FOR MATCH REPORT and PICTURES  click here>>>>

Ilkeston Town's next game is at home against Brigg Town on Wednesday 13th April and is a 7.45 kick off.

Ilkeston Town automatic promotion hopes took a knock as they lost 2-1 to promotion favourites Willenhall Town. Liam Walshe had given Ilkeston the lead late in the first half only for Willenhall to equalise through Creighton on 50 minutes. Substitute Jason Smith won the tie with his first touch after 81 minutes. Ilkeston gloom was further heightened by the fact that both North Ferriby United and AFC Telford won.

FOR A MATCH REPORT click here>>>>

Check out what the damage is on the new WhiteBallProject Run In Click here>>>>>>>

Ilkeston Town have confirmed the signings of a number of players as they look to secure an automatic promotion place. Former legend John Knapper (pictured left and right) has signed on loan until the end of the season. John is now in his third spell at the club. He originally signed for the Robins from Eastwood Town and became a vital cog in the successful Keith Alexander era. He became a legend for his nerring accuracy from the penalty spot and was in turn made team captain. He eventually left to join Alfreton Town. despite being an instant success at North Street he did however return tothe New manor Ground as assistant to Charlie Bishop but had second thoughts and left within a week. This season John has been plagued by niggling injuries and has only made rare appearances for Alfreton’s first team. 

Also joining from Alfreton Town on loan is David Holmes. David is also an ex Robin. He started his career at Scarborough and then joined Gresley Rovers where he impressed enough to gain a record breaking move to Gloucester City. He then joined Burton Albion and it was whilst at Eton Park that he first joined Ilkeston on loan. He then signed on a more permanent basis. He has since played for Worcester City, Alfreton Town and most recently on loan at Gresley Rovers. 

Ilkeston have also signed Scott Hartley as goalkeeping cover for Ross Turner. Scott is presently at Maltby Miners Welfare who he joined as a striker after scoring prolifically in the Rotherham Sunday League (37 goals for Arctic FC by February). He has scored three times for Maltby this season but eventually was persuaded to take over in goal. Fortunately Scott was an apprentice at Rotherham as a keeper.

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