.
We were outplayed by a very physical Carlton side and it certainly didn't go to plan as far as we were concerned. We picked up injuries and Sam Essien's red card means he'll probably miss the opening games.  The plan was to test the players against a more physical side and Carlton were certainly that and they dominated the game. We started with a strong eleven :
1. Dylan Wharton 2. Callum Minkley 3. Sam Parker 4. Matty Thornhill (c) 5. Tom Marshall 6. Tyler Whyle 7. L'Varn Brandy 8. Connor Dixon 9. Robbie Fox 10. Colin Daniel 11. Dylan Youmbi.  
The early injury to Robbie Fox didn't help but we could have gone ahead when L'Varn Brandy’s shot was brilliantly saved. Sam Parker, Matt Thornhill and Tyler Whyle all did well in my opinion but after Brandy's effort, we never really troubled Carlton's excellent keeper who took charge of everything in his box. 

Of the players who came on in the second half, Jason Law was most involved and looked decent and Favor Osaghae showed some much needed aggression.

Ilkeston's performance was disappointing for the fans who travelled but there's another 3 friendlies to come and plenty of time before the season proper.