Tuesday 10 September 2024
Northern Premier League
Worksop Town 2 Ilkeston Town 0
Failure to take chances especially in a riveting first half proved costly for Ilkeston and Worksop went on to record a 5th consecutive win. On loan keeper Owen Mason made his debut for the Robins who couldn’t repeat their first half performance in the second period.
Jonathan Wafula had the first attempt on goal for Ilkeston but he then came off worst in a nasty clash of heads which ended his night after only 4 minutes. Mason produced an outstanding save from a powerful Worksop strike and his opposite number Seb Malkowski saved L’Varn Brandy’s strong header. Mason was in action again saving from Aleks Starcenko before Brandy produced a brilliant bit of skill which saw him race into the Worksop box but his cross was cut out before it reached Tom Cursons. Ilkeston were well ahead on corners and from one of them Worksop were lucky to survive a goalmouth scramble. Worksop took the lead somewhat against the run of play with a Starcenko header on 36 minutes. Ilkeston pressed for a leveller and Connor Dixon’s cross was nicked off the head of Cursons by the busy home keeper. Malkowski then had to race out of his area to head clear, just beating Cursons to the ball. There was a chance at each end in first half added time; first Ilkeston’s Colin Daniel fired over from close range then Mason’s save stopped Worksop going two up.
Worksop started the second half with more purpose and a fine effort by Luke Hall was just wide. Daniel appeared to be pushed over in the Worksop area but appeals were rejected. As Worksop started to get on top James Perch headed off the line. The Tigers doubled their lead through Vaughan Redford on 65 minutes and Ilkeston were then forced to defend in the aftermath. After a couple more Worksop chances Cursons replied for Ilkeston with a shot that flew just wide. Worksop saw out the closing stages so Ilkeston’s night ended in disappointment after such a promising first half.
Written by John Attewell
Photo RBIPhotography