WhiteBallProject / Eastwood this Saturday (5th July)

**Posted by Trowell Nicky** 01/7/2025 12:48 PM

From Mark Frost this morning (1st July)...

Kick-off is now 2pm, not 3pm.

**Posted by Matchman** **Online!** 03/7/2025 8:03 AM

.
I mistakenly went to watch Eastwood last night but they'd already played on Tuesday night so I went over to Basford the see them play Hucknall Town. Finished 0-0 and Matt Yates was brilliant in an even game. There were quite a few Ilkeston fans there in the 386 free admission crowd.
Hucknall were better than I expected and edged the first half though Basford came closest to scoring hitting the woodwork. Second half, both sides had chances but couldn't take them. With those players, I expect Basford to do well in the NPL Midland Division next season.

Last edited by Matchman (03/7/2025 8:05 AM)

**Posted by Matchman** **Online!** 03/7/2025 8:24 AM

.

After whetting my appetite at Basford last night, I'm really looking forward to the Eastwood match on Saturday and seeing what the new signings are like, especially Robbie Fox and Dylan Wharton. A lot is depending on those two and both have hard acts to follow.
Results in friendlies don't matter it's about trying different things before the season starts.

The NPL Premier Division looks stronger this coming season with the incoming teams so it will be tough to make a playoff challenge.
Stockton, Guiseley, Ashton, Gainsborough and Hednesford are favourites for the top five positions. Also expected to make a challenge are Hyde United, the two Warrington teams and Rushall, so a tough season ahead for Ian Deakin and Ilkeston.

Last edited by Matchman (03/7/2025 6:37 PM)

**Posted by Chuckle** 03/7/2025 6:33 PM

Iam looking forward to Saturday's game too. Another pre-season under this management's Team's belt. I think play-offs are a realistic aim even though the division is really competitive. I don't think there is a stand out team that will run away with the championship. There is a argument for many teams.