Robins chalk up derby victory

Goals from Will McCall and Gary Ricketts earned Ilkeston FC their first win of the season as they saw off local rivals Eastwood Town 2-1.

Manager Kevin Wilson felt the victory margin could have been larger as the Robins failed to convert several good chances, but was ultimately happy to pick up the three points.

Said Wilson: "You expect local derbies to be tough and to have to battle to earn the points, and that was the case today.

"But we created plenty of opportunities and we could have scored more goals. Nevertheless that's four points from our first two home games and we're now off and running for the campaign."

McCall (pictured) put the Robins ahead with a smart turn and shot in the box before half-time, a justified lead that could have been extended if Ilkeston had been more clinical on the counter.

Poor defending cost them the lead on the hour but Ricketts got in front of his marker to power home a McCall cross into the far corner 10 minutes later and despite the big striker being forced off with a bang to the ribs, Ilkeston held on for the win.

Added Wilson: "It took 15 or 20 minutes for the game to settle but after that I felt we were largely in charge and we deserved the three points.

"We know we haven't hit the levels we achieved last season as yet, but hopefully the lads will gain confidence from this and take things forward at the weekend. We'll probably have to battle on without Ryan and Laurie Wilson and Daryl Thomas - and hopefully Gary's knock isn't serious enough for him to be added to that list - and it won't be until later in the week that we know if any of them will be back."