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Comparison: Ilkeston and Bedford. 

Ilkeston and Bedford were both promoted from Step 4 to Step 3 last season. 
Bedford were Champions of the Southern League Central Division with 91 points from 38 games. (P38,  W28, D7, L3, F100, A28, Points 91)
Ilkeston were Champions of the Northern Premier Midlands Division with 87 points from 38 games. (P38, W27, D6, L5, F97, A 42, Points 87) 

So both clubs came into the Southern League Premier Central with similar records but whereas Ilkeston brought in many new players, Bedford didn’t and relied on the team that won them promotion. 

Both clubs made poor starts and at the end of September both clubs had just 11 points from 9 matches
By the end of October both had started to recover and both were around mid-table.
By Christmas Ilkeston were up to 7th and Bedford were 12th.
Since Christmas Bedford haven’t won a game and have picked up just 2 draws from 12 matches losing their last seven matches and now look certain to be relegated. 

By comparison Ilkeston have held 7th position, have picked up 19 points from 13 matches and are unbeaten in their last eight (3 wins and 5 draws). 

There appears to be a significant difference in standard between Step 3 and Step 4. It’s harder to score and mistakes at the back get punished.  

Bedford’s Chairman said they were surprised when their manager didn’t want to change the team that had won promotion. Ilkeston went to other way and the influx of new players proved to be detrimental in terms of results.

In teams of ambition, Bedford wanted to consolidate at Step 3 level and unfortunately have failed. Ilkeston were hoping for another promotion and that didn't work out either but we've come close to the playoffs, learned a few lessons and have pretty much been comfortable at Step 3 level.