Full time.   Ilkeston 2 Bamber Bridge 1

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Sat 24th August 2024
Northern Premier League
Ilkeston Town  2  Bamber Bridge  1
Never-say-die Ilkeston came from behind again to take all three points and keep their unbeaten record intact against a very good Bamber Bridge outfit. Tom Cursons took his tally to five goals in as many matches in an entertaining game. 
Bamber settled first and held the upper hand early on. Chris Churchman was first go close with a header before Michael Potts was denied by Yates. Churchman then saw his low shot pushed round the post by Yates. Ilkeston replied with header just wide by Cursons from Jamie Walker’s cross before Bamber deservedly went ahead on 18 minutes through Max Cane who slammed the ball home from close range. Ilkeston hit back and Bamber keeper Nick Michalski did really well to deny Cursons. Cursons then created a chance for Jonathan Wafula who’s effort was off target but a minute later Ilkeston were level when Jamie Walker’s pass found Cursons who lashed the ball past Michalski. Walker then set up James Perch whose shot flew over the bar. Just before half time a brilliant run and shot by L’Varn Brandy was pushed wide by Michalski. 
Bamber Bridge were first out of the blocks for the second half and there was an appeal for a penalty when Oliver Malloy went down on the edge of the area. A free kick was the outcome and the wall did it's job. Malloy then brought a fine save from Yates before a defensive mishap nearly gifted Bamber the lead. A collision between two Ilkeston defenders left Jack Baxter with only Yates to beat but he failed to take advantage. Ilkeston retaliated with an effort from Brandy which was only just wide of the far post. Sam Parker did well to block a shot by Potts and Ilkeston raced up the other end to take the lead on 62 minutes. It was Walker again with the decisive pass that put Cursons one on one with Michalski and Ilkeston’s striker made no mistake. Bamber tried hard to find an equaliser and Molloy created a real opportunity for Cane who unfortunately lost his footing. There was a late chance for Billy Bould who headed over but Ilkeston held on for a hard fought win.


 

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Ian Deakin gives his thoughts following 2-1 home win against Bamber Bridge.

https://youtu.be/eDhMlqwvTyk

Last edited by Matchman (25/8/2024 7:00 PM)