Follow Ricketts' example, Wilson tells players

Kevin Wilson has urged his Ilkeston FC players to take inspiration from veteran striker Gary Ricketts ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Rushall Olympic.

We claimed our first point after stepping up to Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division level for the first time on Saturday, drawing 1-1 with fellow new-boys AFC Fylde.

It was Ricketts who scored the Robins’ equaliser just three minutes after going behind, but it was the former Hucknall and Hinckley man’s all-round play that most impressed his manager.

“It was hot on Saturday but that shouldn’t be used as an excuse for not being up for it – and our number nine certainly didn’t use it,” said Wilson (pictured).

“A lot of our players can do worse than look at him and follow the example he sets. He’s player-coach and 37, but he still out there and wanting to do it. He still wants to put his foot in.

“He scored a good goal and could have had more. When people are feeling tired they should look at him and see that he is putting his body on the line for this club. He’s a great role model.”

Wilson insists it is too early to know the full extent of Daryll Thomas’ injury after Ricketts’ co-striker was forced off with a damaged hamstring.

But the boss is hopeful he will pick from an otherwise fully fit squad for the short journey to Dales Lane, just down the road from where he once plied his trade as a player for Walsall.

Rushall got their campaign off to a flyer at the weekend with a 1-0 victory at Whitby with summer signing David Walker grabbing a second half winner.

Wilson said: “There were a lot of positives to come out of Saturday’s game, especially the second half when we were better with and without the ball.

“We held onto the ball better, got more balls into their box and created a few more chances. That’s something we have to try to build on tomorrow night.

“Rushall have bought well and have some good players, who we will respect but, as I have always said, it’s all about what we do and we will concentrate on that.”