Shot byLouis Rose! And Dexter Atkinson almost gets on the end of a cross!

1-1 Rose 41 mins Only what the lads deserved!

Ilkeston line up:- Hannis Walters Scanlon Thornberry Baker Meakin Rose Bather Morris Clarke Atkinson sub Tyrell

Clarke heads just owner the bar! Art 249

Touch wood but Ilson on top!

Excellent save by Hannis! Ilson lads still fighting!

Despite fielding a very inexperienced team Ilkeston had spells in the game where they totally dominated Marine. They started brightly with a shot on goal straight from the kick off! This positive approach looked to be paying off as Ilkeston pressed forward looking for an opener. Surprisingly Marine looked to be the team showing nerves. Fans feared the worse however when Marine scored a soft goal after a defensive mix up. Heroically the young Robins continued to press and after a good passing move Rose scored from close range to level the game. In the second half again looked the more dangerous until Bellew scored with a wonderful speculative long distance shot which gave Hannis no chance. Ilkeston tried yet again back into the game, backed by a loud vocal support, but despite some enterprising play could not convert their possession into real chances. Marine grew in confidence and were unlucky not to go further ahead forcing Hannis into a number of excellent saves. Atkinson looked lively until he was replaced by Ilkestons one substitute. Bather had an impressive debut in midfield and the back four looked solid.
Overall this was a spirited performance which lifted the morale of everybody involved with Ilkeston football. All they need to do now is find a player who can find the back of the net. Easy really!