The Robins return to the Microlise New Manor Ground on Tuesday evening (7:45pm kick-off) as they host Stapleford Town in the first of four home pre-season fixtures.
Fresh from an impressive 4-2 victory away at Belper United, Tris Whitman’s side will be looking to continue their positive start to pre-season in front of the Robins faithful.
Ilkeston found the net four times on Friday evening, with new signing Jevin Seaton opening his account for the club alongside midfielder Lewis Belgrave, while two trialists also got on the scoresheet.
Reflecting on the victory, manager Tris Whitman said:
“The game against Belper was our first proper chance to have a look at the lads in a game situation and generally we were quite happy.
“Only a few weeks ago we would have struggled to field a team, so I was delighted with the progress we’ve made so far off the field.
“As expected, the game was always going to present certain challenges due to trying to integrate so many new faces, but at times some of the work we have done in training was evident.
“We started the game with control and took the lead through a set piece but then had a period where we looked uncomfortable and uncertain, which Belper were able to capitalise on and level the score.
“It took a little while to settle after that, but I felt we then showed real composure and control, which saw us take a 3-1 lead into half-time.
“Eight changes disrupted the flow in the second half before we started to display patterns and control of possession, which led to us adding a fourth.
“Overall, I’m really pleased with the minutes the lads got, alongside some glimpses of the things we’ve been working on.
“There’s still loads to reflect on and develop over the coming weeks in preparation for the new season.”
Supporters are encouraged to get behind the Robins as preparations continue for the 2026/27 campaign and an exciting new era at the club.
As is the case on the pitch, the club continues to innovate off it too. Supporters are encouraged to arrive early, with a brand-new promotional video set to premiere on the stadium’s outdoor screen from 7:30pm, ahead of kick-off.
Match Details
Fixture: Ilkeston Town vs Stapleford Town
Competition: Pre-Season Friendly
Venue: Microlise New Manor Ground
Date: Tuesday 7th July
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Admission
- Adults: £5
- Under-11s: FREE
- Pay on the gate
We look forward to welcoming the Robins faithful back to the Microlise New Manor Ground for another evening of pre-season football.