Trinity boss Russ Wilcox has a full squad at his disposal, as he looks for a reaction to Saturday’s loss, "After a disappointing start to the season we must stay positive and focused for a tough away trip to Ilkeston on Tuesday night. The game against Ashton will not make or break our season. We are a point worse off than last season - and it’s our first defeat in 12 games." He implored the Trinity faithful to make the trip, and back the Holy Blues: "Please come to Derbyshire and give us your full backing. The players have been magnificent since I arrived nearly two years ago."
Last Season
The two games against Ilkeston ended in stalemate last season. The same fixture at the New Manor Ground, on opening day, ended in a keenly contested 2-2 draw. An own goal by ex-Trinity man Jonathan Wafula got Gainsborough up and running, only to be pegged back by Colin Daniel five minutes into the second half. Declan Howe put the Holy Blues back in front in a see-saw encounter, before Josh Render could do little as the ball rebounded back off the frame of the goal and off the Blues’ custodian to see the spoils shared on opening day.
The home game at the start of March finished goal-less as Trinity drew three games on the bounce as part of a nine game unbeaten run. Will either side be able to claim bragging rights in this one?
The Hosts
Managed by Ian Deakin, Ilkeston finished last season just outside the play-off spots, and have recruited well during the summer. Former Trinity ‘keeper Dylan Wharton has replaced another former Gainsborough shot-stopper between the sticks. Matt Yates moving on to Basford United following Wharton’s summer arrival. Two other former Blues were also involved in the Ilkeston starting eleven on opening day, midfielder Matt Thornhill and the defensive-minded ex Derby County man, Callum Minkley. The trio all expect to be involved against one of their former clubs.
A five minute salvo, either side of the midway point in the first half, was enough to give the Robins a lead to hold on to. Even though Morpeth were reduced to ten men, just before half time – they managed to pull one back through former Blyth man Cyril Giraud.
Matchday Arrangements
Trinity will be in wearing the brand new, vibrant yellow away shirt, with royal blue and black vertical line. This is the first time the shirt has been worn. A shoutout to our sponsors Brexons & Booth Construction who adorn front and back of the shirt respectively.
We have been advised by our hosts, that the postcode to use for the Microlise New Manor Ground is DE7 8JF. Cash or card payments can be taken on the gate, with Adult tickets priced at £13, Concessions £9, with Under 16s £2 and Under 11s free.
Ilkeston do not produce a physical matchday programme. They do however provide a digital version, that is downloadable. Details of this will be shared by ITFC, on the day of the game.
Elsewhere
Eight sides (as Stocksbridge Park Steels are still technically a 100% side) will be looking to maintain 100% records, while eight look to pick up their first points of the new season. One of Whitby or Stocksbridge, will lose their tag though, as the former host the newly promoted Steels in their first fixture back at the level.
Here is the fixture list in full for Matchday Two:
Ashton United vs Prescot Cables
Cleethorpes Town vs Hyde United
Guiseley AFC vs Hebburn Town
Hednesford Town vs Warrington Town
Lancaster City vs FC United of Manchester
Leek Town vs Rushall Olympic
Stockton Town vs Workington AFC
Warrington Rylands vs Bamber Bridge
Whitby Town vs Stocksbridge Park Steels
Morpeth Town (free game day due to Widnes' resignation).
Preview by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Images by Tommy Cox (tl.c_photography)