Ilkeston Line up:-

Ilkeston Town looked to end their recent run of games without a win by by making six changes from the team that lost at Rugby United ten days ago. Manager Phil Stant introduced two new players. Mick Lyons brother of ex Robin Pat Lyons and a former Derby County trainee signed from Hinckley United and Graham Lewis the versatile ex Lincoln City player.

Ilkeston started the brighter of the two sides and could have taken the lead after Marc Laws (pictured left) came close with a header on nine minutes. Despite their early dominance the Robins went behind on 33 minutes when a Luke Prince free kick was headed home by Chris Holland from six yards. 

Ilkeston were unlucky to be behind at half time but they were soon on level terms when debutant Mick Lyons was fed by Chris Freestone on 55 mins. Lyons cut inside and scored with a shot that hit the roof of the net.

Unfortunately the Robins could not capitalise on their equaliser and on 77 minutes it Chris Holland again who restored the students lead after Prince’s corner was bundled home at the far post. The goal proved to be the winner as Team Bath finished the stronger of the two sides.

WhiteBallProject Man of the Match - Michael Lyons - Fine debut and an excellent goal

With all the new faces arriving at the New Manor Ground it will take time before the new players settle in but if the Robins start picking up points they will not be fighting for a top six spot but will scrambling around at the bottom. The new players should bring in the much needed experience which will bolster the obvious youthful potential that there is at the club. New signings David Jervis (ex Mansfield Town) and John Burns (ex Burton Albion and Nottingham Forest) have still to make an appearance and Ilkeston fans will be looking forward for a home fixture so that they can run the rule over what could be a completely new team.