ROBINS BEATEN IN BRIGG OPENER
20^TH AUGUST 1977
BRIGG TOWN 3 ILKESTON TOWN 1
The season began badly for Ilkeston as they lost a rough match at Brigg, who went on to win the championship eight months later. Both Dick Kalasiak and Andy Simpson picked up knocks during the game and Ilkeston had several penalty appeals turned down. They fell behind as early as the 2^nd minute when Whitehouse converted a simple chance after ‘keeper Steve Bunting appeared to have been fouled. Worse was to come when Whitehouse scored again a minute later and when Drinkell made it three The Robins were in real trouble facing Brigg’s speedy attacks. However, they regained composure and came more into the game although their only effort of note during the first half was a long range strike by John Parry that was saved.

Ilkeston enjoyed a much better second half and were on top for much of it. Andy Simpson’s consolation goal came from a shot from outside the area. Nevertheless, Brigg could have added further goals but for two good saves by Bunting and their sturdy defence ensured that they would not throw away their lead.

KIMBERLEY CAN’T DAMPEN TOWN’S SPIRIT
24^TH AUGUST 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 2 KIMBERLEY TOWN 2
An atrocious night of heavy rain failed to prevent an exciting encounter from taking place. All the goals came in the first half with Steve Taylor giving Ilkeston an 11^th minute lead. Kimberley drew level on 24 minutes when Andy Simpson’s poor back pass allowed Gregory to score, and they took the lead seven minutes later when future Ilkeston striker Glen Birkin held off two challenges to slip the ball in from close range. Kimberley’s joy was short lived as Ilkeston equalised on 34 minutes. Taylor won the ball and found Alan Newton whose cross was met by a fine left foot volley by Simpson. Both teams could have won the game so the result was probably the fairest outcome.

DISMAL ROBINS LOSE TO ARNOLD
27^TH AUGUST 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 0 ARNOLD 2
A dismal second half showing by Ilkeston who allowed their heads to drop ensured that a powerful Arnold team returned home with the points. The visitors’ early pressure led to one good save by Steve Bunting but he was beaten in the 8^th minute when Les Parker’s attempted headed clearance went to straight to Russ who made no mistake. Ilkeston did not fare too badly during the remainder of the half. Dick Kalasiak was twice denied by former Ilkeston ‘keeper Steve Rann, and Alan Newton saw a powerful shot hit the bar.

Arnold scored again a minute into the second half. Wright capitalised on a long ball as Tony Downie slipped. Ilkeston appeared to lose all heart when Kalasiak limped off injured and they never looked like coming back.

TOWN GO BOTTOM
29^TH AUGUST 1977
SKEGNESS TOWN 2 ILKESTON TOWN 0
Skegness pushed disjointed Ilkeston to the foot of the Midland Counties League with a straightforward victory. Both goals came in the first half and were provided by Worsdale who created the chances for Johnson and Robinson to finish crisply.

ILKESTON HELD BUT HOLD HEADS HIGH
3^RD SEPTEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 0 TAMWORTH 0 (FA CUP PRELIMINARY ROUND)
It was hard to tell who was bottom of the Midland Counties League and who was established in the Southern League as Ilkeston pushed Tamworth all the way. Indeed, the visitors frequently had to resort to fouls in a successful effort to keep The Robins out, particularly during the first half. Ilkeston were unlucky when Alan Newton’s tremendous shot slammed against the post.

Tamworth came more into the picture in the second half although Ilkeston continued to impress. Tamworth went close to a late winner but Steve Bunting made a superb save to keep out a header.

ROBINS ROBBED IN REPLAY
7^TH SEPTEMBER 1977
TAMWORTH 1 ILKESTON TOWN 0 (FA CUP PRELIMINARY ROUND REPLAY)
Ilkeston received a cruel blow as they looked set to take the tie into extra time. Having been the better team for most of the game they fell to an 89^th minute goal scored by Barber, who missed a great chance moments earlier, with a calm finish from Trevor’s assist. Ilkeston created the better chances throughout and went desperately close to taking the lead early in the second half when Steve Renshaw cracked the underside of the bar following ‘keeper Satchwell’s uncertainty.

HOLLETT HEAPS AGONY ON ILKESTON
10^TH SEPTEMBER 1977
ALFRETON TOWN 3 ILKESTON TOWN 2
Champions Alfreton added to Ilkeston’s early season misery with a win but The Robins gave a creditable performance and deserved a draw at least. Alfreton took an early lead when Hollett converted a superb Lyons cross, and then Bentley missed a golden chance. Ilkeston then settled in the windy conditions and equalised through Tony Downie after he received a square ball from brother Clyde. With action at both ends it needed a good save by Steve Bunting from a Ford free kick to prevent Alfreton from going in at the breakwith a half time lead.

Ilkeston stunned the home side by taking the lead on 48 minutes. ‘Keeper Miller could only punch a cross to John Parry who shot through a crowded area. Alfreton got themselves back on level terms in the 57^th minute when Dick Fleckney handled and Lyons scored from the spot. The goal put Ilkeston on the back foot and they were forced to go on the defensive. The decisive winning goal came from Hollett 20 minutes from time.

LOUTH LAY SIEGE TO LACK LUSTRE TOWN
24^TH SEPTEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 1 LOUTH UNITED 2
Winless Ilkeston never recovered from a bad start and the final score flattered them. High flying Louth’s pace caused problems throughout and two early goals were enough to secure the points. Louth took the lead when Dick Fleckney punched out Towill’s powerful shot and Brown beat Steve Bunting from the spot. Marshall then raced through to chip over the stranded Bunting as Ilkeston’s defence stood still appealing for offside for Louth’s second. Dominant Louth hit the woodwork before The Robins finally got going. Dick Kalasiak had an effort saved, and Tony Downie didn’t miss by much following some good work by Keith Alexander.

Ilkeston lacked punch in attack during the second half although Tony Downie was able to grab a consolation goal two minutes from time.

RICE ADDS FLAVOUR AT RETFORD
1^ST OCTOBER 1977
RETFORD TOWN 3 ILKESTON TOWN 5
Ilkeston won an extraordinary and exciting game after being two goals down. Played in a strong wind Ilkeston were on top early on and Dick Kalasiak missed an easy chance. Retford punished that miss by taking the lead when a poor clearance led to Lewitt scoring with a defected shot. Worse was to come as Nicholson soon added a second. But Ilkeston fought back with Andy Rice pulling a goal back in the 24^th minute, and Steve Renshaw equalised close to half time.

Retford regained the lead through Nicholson on 53 minutes but Ilkeston were far from finished. Showing great determination they quickly drew level through Alan Newton and went on to control the last half hour. Keith Alexander’s great work led to Rice, who was later injured, giving Ilkeston the lead for the first time, and in the last minute Tony Downie’s header following a corner made certain of Ilkeston’s first victory of the season.

BATTLING ILKESTON GO DOWN IN DERBY
8^TH OCTOBER 1977
EASTWOOD TOWN 2 ILKESTON TOWN 0
Ilkeston weathered sustained Eastwood pressure in the first half and fought strongly after the break but their lack of power up front meant their efforts counted for nothing. It was one way traffic for most of the first half when Eastwood did everything but score. Steve Bunting turned away an early Price shot, a Clarkin header went narrowly wide, and Bunting then made a brilliant save from Wright. The Ilkeston ‘keeper then dived full length to keep out a Clarkin effort before Wright hit the post after a good move between Millward and Clarkin. Ilkeston’s best chance of the half came as half time approached when Dick Kalasiak fed Keith Alexander who took the ball round the ‘keeper only for it to run out of play.

Although Eastwood remained on top after the break Ilkeston deserved something for their fighting spirit, especially after Wright fired The Badgers in front. They pressed hard for an equaliser but failed to create any real chances. And Eastwood made them pay when Les Parker conceded a penalty, awarded despite an Eastwood player being in a seemingly offside position, and Millward scored from the spot. Alan Newton was booked for protesting too strongly at the decision.

TROPHY JOY FOR ROBINS
15^TH OCTOBER 1977
LONG EATON UNITED 0 ILKESTON TOWN 1 (FA TROPHY FIRST QUALIFYING ROUND)
Ilkeston dominated the game and Long Eaton could not have complained if The Robins had won more handsomely. The home side had the better of the opening stages but Town grew in stature and confidence as the game wore on. Peter Malone headed narrowly wide and then Clyde Downie picked himself up after being fouled by Edwards, who was booked for the challenge, to fire the free kick just off target. Long Eaton replied with a couple of efforts from Clarke, his first effort going just wide and then a header that brought a good save from Steve Bunting. Ilkeston began to step up the pressure towards half time and Dick Kalasiak and Keith Alexander both missed chances. Long Eaton ‘keeper Inger made a fine save from Colin Chamberlain, and when Alexander rounded Inger and crossed to Kalasiak his effort was cleared off the line by former Ilkeston player and future manager David Stainwright.

Ilkeston got the goal they deserved on 52 minutes. Clyde Downie played a good ball to Alexander whose low cross was turned into his own net by future Ilkeston defender Pete McGurk. Long Eaton showed greater urgency after falling behind. Nick Jarvis had to head one effort off the line, Steve Bunting made an outstanding save, and Brian Rowlands was lucky when he appeared to handle but no penalty was awarded. Ilkeston hung on for a well earned win, their first in the FA Trophy for over five years.

MEXBOROUGH TOO STRONG FOR ILKESTON
5^TH NOVEMBER 1977
MEXBOROUGH TOWN ATHLETIC 3 ILKESTON TOWN 1
Mexborough, second in the table, showed a physical side to their game and were ultimately too powerful for Ilkeston who fought hard themselves. Indeed, the game was closer than the final score suggested. The home side roared into the attack from the off and had a chance cleared off the line in the first minute before going in front two minutes later. Bennett’s cross was met by a diving header from Kulic. Ilkeston’s persistence paid off in the 25^th minute when Kevin Bishop headed home a Clyde Downie cross, but failed to take advantage when Mexborough’s ‘keeper had to leave the pitch for a time through injury, stand in Epton not being tested.

Mexborough regained the lead early in the second half through Howard who beat two defenders before firing in a fine shot. The Robins tried hard to get an equaliser but they failed to score and Whittaker wrapped things up for Mexborough with a goal late in the game.

CELTIC CLASS SHINES THROUGH
12^TH NOVEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 1 STALYBRIDGE CELTIC 4 (FA TROPHY SECOND QUALIFYING ROUND)
Ilkeston were close to causing an upset against a Stalybridge team who were top of the powerful Cheshire League and destined to finish second. In difficult wintry conditions and heavy rain Ilkeston edged the first half. Alan Newton shot narrowly wide, and when Keith Alexander found Dick Kalasiak his header lacked power and accuracy. However, Ilkeston took the lead before the break when Newton ran into the area and was tripped, Dick Fleckney scoring from the spot.

Stalybridge pressed forward in the strong wind after the break and Steve Bunting made several fine saves before Lord equalised on 68 minutes. Ilkeston tried to respond and Brian Rowlands went close with a fine header before Alexander missed a chance. That miss proved costly as Stalybridge took over. Keelan put them in front in the 73^rd minute and then scored with a penalty five minutes later. Lord scored his second and Stalybridge’s fourth a minute from time.

SHOCKING ROBINS HELD
26^TH NOVEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 2 NEWHALL UNITED (DERBYSHIRE SENIOR CUP FIRST ROUND)
Woeful Ilkeston were frequently outplayed by fast moving Derbyshire Premier League side Newhall. Early in the game a Les Parker error let in Waine whose shot flew over the bar. The Robins took a surprise lead when good work by Tony Downie led to Dick Kalasiak executing a fine lob. But Newhall deservedly equalised on 40 minutes when Sherratt capitalised on a defensive mix up.

Ilkeston’s defence looked shaky after the break but they went ahead against the run of play with a fine solo goal by Clyde Downie. But Newhall drew level again within a minute when another terrible defensive mistake left Fagan with a simple chance. Ilkeston had Steve Bunting to thank for keeping them in the competition with a tremendous save late in the game.

CALAMITY AS ROBINS CRASH OUT
3^RD DECEMBER 1977
NEWHALL UNITED 6 ILKESTON TOWN 4 - AFTER EXTRA TIME - (DERBYSHIRE SENIOR CUP FIRST ROUND REPLAY)
A bizarre game that resembled a pantomime had Ilkeston providing most of the laughs with a performance best described as black comedy, matched only in its absurdity by the inept referee. ‘Keeper Steve Bunting arrived late so Ilkeston kicked off with ten men and diminutive winger Clyde Downie in goal. Yet they managed to take the lead through Andy Rice on 4 minutes. Less than a minute later the scores were level when Tony Downie was harshly adjudged to have tripped a Newhall forward and Butler scored from the spot. When Bunting took to the pitch one of his first jobs was to pick the ball out of the net after 10 minutes. Another poor decision, given for pushing against Dick Kalasiak, enabled Butler to score his second penalty of the game, and Alan Newton was booked for disputing the award of the spot kick.

The Robins equalised with a fine goal by Tony Downie early in the second half but Newhall regained the lead on 52 minutes through Waine. By now Newhall were looking the better side but incredibly Ilkeston found themselves ahead with goals by Clyde Downie and Rice. Unable to make the most of their unexpected advantage Ilkeston allowed Waine to equalise for Newhall to take the game into extra time. The Robins showed little appetite for the remainder of the game and the home side deservedly went on to win with Waine completing his hat-trick and Sherratt scored Newhall’s sixth.

LAST GASP GOAL SINKS ILKESTON
10^TH DECEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 1 SKEGNESS TOWN 2 (LEAGUE CUP FIRST ROUND)
It looked as Ilkeston were going to take the tie into extra time thanks to an improved second half performance but they were sunk at the death. Skegness dominated the early stages. Creaser went through only to shoot straight at Steve Bunting and a fine shot by Croy was well blocked by Brian Rowlands. Bunting’s good save denied Croy but when Ilkeston failed to clear a long throw Robinson netted from close range to give Skegness a 23^rd minute lead. Ilkeston did put the ball into the net when Andy Rice’s cross was forced in by Rowlands but he used his hands in the process.

Ilkeston came much more into the game after the break. Proctor made an excellent save to keep out Clyde Downie’s diving header from Glen Birkin’s cross but he was powerless to prevent Rice’s brilliant chip from finding the target for Ilkeston’s equaliser on the hour. Clyde Downie missed a great chance to clinch victory for Ilkeston and they were made to rue this lost opportunity when Worsdale blasted in from long range with a minute remaining.

ALEXANDER OFF AS PASS GIVES MASTERCLASS
17^TH DECEMBER 1977
ARNOLD 3 ILKESTON TOWN 1
Ilkeston’s improved performance could have brought some reward but they were denied a point by two late goals. They also had some justification for their anger at the referee. Andy Rice fired a good chance over for The Robins early on whilst Nixon missed a chance at the other end. Steve Bunting then made a good save to keep out a header from former Ilkeston player Phil Shrewsbury. But it was Arnold who took the lead on the half hour when good play by Nixon enabled Pass to net from close range. Ilkeston equalised before half time when Brian Rowlands headed home a Clyde Downie corner. But their joy was short lived as Keith Alexander was sent off for swearing after Tony Downie had been booked.

Ten man Ilkeston battled valiantly after half time and Bunting made two good saves but their resistance was broken late on. Pass scored his second with a fine lob in the 84^th minute and he completed his hat-trick just before the end.

WASTEFUL ILKESTON DRAW A BLANK
31^ST DECEMBER 1977
ILKESTON TOWN 0 EASTWOOD TOWN 1
Poor finishing stood between Ilkeston and a morale boosting point against their local rivals. Eastwood dominated early on and Wright shot wide a golden chance but Ilkeston gradually came more into the game. The Robins fell behind on 30 minutes when Les Parker lay down injured, the result of a poor challenge that went unpunished, and Gregory took full advantage to blast home a low shot. The referee consulted with a linesman before awarding the goal. Ilkeston refused to feel sorry for themselves and took the game to Eastwood before half time but Keith Alexander and Dick Kalasiak spurned chances by delaying their shots too long.

Eastwood were dangerous in the second half even though Ilkeston battled on gamely only to fall down in front of goal. Wright hit the post, Price shot over a good chance, and Steve Bunting made some good saves as The Badgers searched in vain for a decisive second goal.

UNLUCKY ILKESTON HELD
2^ND JANUARY 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 0 BELPER TOWN 0
Ilkeston created the better chances in a tight game to pick up their first home point since August. However, poor finishing let them down and they had ‘keeper Steve Bunting to thank for some good saves on the rare occasions Belper got forward. The Robins were unlucky when Nick Jarvis hit the bar but they had an escape late on when Les Parker appeared to handle but no penalty was awarded.

ROBINS PICK UP POINT
7^TH JANUARY 1978
ASHBY INSTITUTE 0 ILKESTON TOWN 0
Ilkeston held their own at Ashby and returned with a well deserved point but missed chances again prevented them from getting a much needed win. The first chance to fall Ilkeston’s way was when Clyde Downie broke down the left and crossed but Keith Alexander’s left foot shot went wide. Play fluctuated from end to end and Steve Bunting made a couple of good saves for Ilkeston but the best chance of the first half fell their way shortly before half time. Steve Marshall mishit from 6 yards out, however, and the ball was cleared off the line. Town’s misfortune increased when Alexander went to hospital with a head injury after colliding with ‘keeper Knight.

Ilkeston were generally on top during the second half but it needed a fine save from Bunting late in the game to keep out Pigott and prevent another defeat.

HEANOR HAMMER ILKESTON
14^TH JANUARY 1978
HEANOR TOWN 4 ILKESTON TOWN 1
The game started late because of a tardy referee and The Robins probably wished that he had failed to turn up at all come the final whistle. Ilkeston were embarrassed and disgraced by Heanor and they appeared to be just going through the motions. As a result they got the result they deserved. After Steve Bunting made an early save Ilkeston actually played quite well for a short period but Tony Downie twice and Keith Alexander missed chances to put The Robins in the driving seat. Then Heanor took over and didn’t look back after taking the lead on the half hour through Kowalenko following a corner. Bunting made two further saves before Heanor scored again two minutes before the break when Deakin’s left foot shot found the top corner.

Alexander and Peter Malone missed chances for Ilkeston in the second half but Heanor remained in full control. Dick Fleckney cleared one Heanor goal attempt off the line before they scored a third goal in the 73^rd minute when Thornhill pounced after Ilkeston failed to clear a corner. Their fourth was scored by McVeigh when a Short effort had been blocked on the line whilst Ilkeston scored a last minute consolation goal through Dick Kalasiak following good work by Clyde Downie.

ILKESTON WOE CONTINUES
25^TH FEBRUARY 1978
BOSTON 2 ILKESTON TOWN 1
Ilkeston’s reasonable performance brought no reward as they made it eight league games without a win. Both teams struggled to master a heavy pitch during a first half that Boston slowly began to dominate. Steve Bunting made some fine saves before the home side went in front on 34 minutes. A corner found Ball whose effort came off the post and Beatson forced the ball home.

Ilkeston showed more urgency in the second half but poor finishing let them down until they equalised in the 67^th minute, Peter Malone heading home a Roger Chamberlain free kick. But Boston regained the lead within a minute when Mallender converted Nicholson’s cross. Ilkeston put on plenty of pressure during the closing stages but were unable to find an equaliser.

PRICELESS POINTS FOR ILKESTON
4^TH MARCH 1978
BELPER TOWN 2 ILKESTON TOWN 3
Ilkeston recorded a most welcome victory despite a patchy performance but remained rooted to the foot of the table. They made a good start but received a couple of warning shots from Bailey and Rhodes who went close to giving Belper the lead. Ilkeston went close themselves with a Mick Slaney header that went narrowly wide and they took the lead through Dick Fleckney who shot home from close range. Belper responded with a Daniels shot from distance that hit the bar but Slaney went on a fine solo run to put The Robins two goals up. Ilkeston held out as Belper built up a steady steam of pressure before half time.

Belper came much more into the game in the second half and Peter Smith made a couple of saves to deny Rhodes and Stone. Then former Ilkeston player and future manager Carl Francis fluffed a great chance to bring Belper right back in it. Instead it was Rhodes, on 65 minutes, who put the game on a knife edge. Ilkeston were still capable of attacking dangerously and after a Dick Kalasiak header just missed the target they appeared to make the game safe six minutes from time. Clyde Downie was brought down in the area and Fleckney made no mistake with the penalty. But Belper refused to concede defeat and they pulled a goal back a minute later with a Rhodes header. The goal set up a tense finale and Belper came desperately close to an equaliser when Rhodes hit the post but Ilkeston hung on to claim their first league win in five months.

JOYOUS BOYERS LANDS CRUEL BLOWS ON PLUCKY ROBINS
11^TH MARCH 1978
LOUTH UNITED 4 ILKESTON TOWN 4
League leaders Louth were on the verge of being on the receiving end of a shock defeat by the bottom club before Boyers stepped up to earn them a point late in a thrilling game. Ilkeston took the lead after just 5 minutes through Clyde Downie but Boyers got Louth level with a brilliantly taken goal following a move down the left a minute later. Ilkeston continued to surprise Louth, however, and they regained the lead on 26 minutes. When a free kick wasn’t cleared by the Louth defence Clyde Downie fed brother Tony to score. The Robins were now on top and Clyde Downie used his pace to intercept a back pass and score their third. An exciting first half ended with Chapman pulling a goal back for Louth on the stroke of half time.

Ilkeston stuck to their task well in the second half and they appeared to have sewn the game up in the 75^th minute when Dick Fleckney scored from the penalty spot. But Louth weren’t league leaders for nothing and they were rescued by two late goals by Boyers to complete his hat-trick and a fine comeback.

PENALTY MISS WRECKS ROBINS HOPES
18^TH MARCH 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 0 BOSTON 3
Ilkeston dictated the first hour of the game but wasted a hatful of chances and Boston punished them with some clinical finishing late on in a frustrating game. Paul Marshall headed a Peter Malone cross wide, and Clyde Downie missed a sitter before Dick Fleckney appeared to be fouled in the area but no penalty was awarded. Clyde Downie’s excellent work provided missed chances by Marshall and Fleckney as Ilkeston continued to dominate. Steve Bunting only had one save of note to make throughout the first half.

Ilkeston had a great chance to take the lead on 55 minutes when Fleckney was tripped but McPherson saved his resultant penalty. This proved to be the turning point as desperate Ilkeston left gaps at the back in their pursuit of goals. Himsworth’s fine solo goal gave Boston the lead on 66 minutes, Winters scored the second in the 80^th minute, and Himsworth scored again in the dying seconds.

HOLDER PENS SETTLE EREWASH DERBY
22^ND MARCH 1978
LONG EATON UNITED 3 ILKESTON TOWN 2
Playing in atrocious conditions and pouring rain Ilkeston lost a frustrating game. Peter Malone gave them the lead on the half hour but it all went wrong after half time.

The turning point was a debatable penalty decision given against Les Parker for a push on former Ilkeston striker Bert Bowery. Steve Holder, a future Ilkeston manager, scored from the spot. Future Ilkeston stalwart Tony Cuthbert then gave Long Eaton the lead with a 20 yard shot before Holder scored his second penalty of the game when Alan Newton handled. A third penalty was awarded, this time for Ilkeston, when Dick Fleckney was fouled and although his penalty was saved he scored from the rebound. But the goal was not enough for Ilkeston to come back and take a point.

SECOND HALF FIGHTBACK BRINGS ROBINS A POINT
25^TH MARCH 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 2 ASHBY INSTITUTE 2
Ilkeston recovered from a terrible start to gain a deserved point. Ashby scored twice in the opening 7 minutes, the first coming from a 10 yard strike by Pigott and then he turned provider for Bryan to notch the second. Ilkeston appeared to be heading for defeat as Ashby controlled the first half.

The Robins improved dramatically after the break and were boosted when Clyde Downie showed great skill and shot on the turn for a fine goal. Paul Marshall, Nick Jarvis and Dick Fleckney missed chances before Peter Malone scored the equaliser following a goalmouth scramble on 70 minutes.

ROBINS CLAIM FIRST HOME VICTORY
27^TH MARCH 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 2 SKEGNESS TOWN 1
Unconvincing Ilkeston failed to impress but still managed to record their first home victory of the season and their first on the Manor Ground in almost eleven months. It seemed as if they were heading for another defeat when Whitehead put Skegness in front from close range early in the second half and ‘keeper Steve Bunting kept Ilkeston in the game as the visitors continued to look dangerous. Ilkeston equalised out of the blue in the 70^th minute when Roger Chamberlain’s corner was headed down by Keith Alexander for Clyde Downie to score. An exciting finale saw both teams have goals disallowed, and Skegness hit the bar, but more importantly Clyde Downie grabbed an 87^th minute winner following a good touch by Alexander.

ILKESTON SECURE BACK TO BACK WINS
1^ST APRIL 1978
BRIDLINGTON TRINITY 2 ILKESTON TOWN 3
Ilkeston players and supporters didn’t get back home until the early hours after their coach broke down on the way back. Otherwise it was a satisfying trip to the seaside. Defences dominated early on before Bridlington became more dangerous. Steve Bunting made up for dropping a cross by making a fine save from Rouse, and Greenwood missed a great chance. It was no surprise when Trinity took a 30^th minute lead, Tony Downie turning a Greenwood cross into his own net. Another Bunting error wasn’t punished when he lost possession outside of his area, and Ilkeston’s escape proved to be crucial. On 38 minutes Clyde Downie was fouled and Nick Jarvis fired home a fine free kick.

The Robins were more potent after the break. Paul Marshall hit the bar and just failed to score from the rebound. But they were stunned when Bridlington regained the lead against the run of play, Rouse heading home following Adams’ run and cross. However, Ilkeston refused to give up and Alan Newton netted a fine equaliser. The winner came when Clyde Downie was brought down and Dick Fleckney kept his head to score from the spot.

MALONE GIVEN MARCHING ORDERS AS TEMPERS BOIL
3^RD APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 1 ALFRETON TOWN 2
An exciting game was marred by some rough play at times that led to tempers boiling over. Six players were booked, Peter Malone was sent off in the second half, and the referee was jeered for his part in the game. Steve Bunting kept Ilkeston in the game with some fine saves but The Robins had chances of their own, Tony Downie and Keith Alexander missing two good ones in particular, and they were unlucky not to draw. Alfreton took the lead on 27 minutes when Ormondroyd and Pratt combined for Lyons to score. Shortly after Malone’s dismissal Griffiths added the second in the 71^st minute. Seven minutes later Paul Marshall’s cross was nodded down by Dick Fleckney for Clyde Downie to score a fine goal but Ilkeston were unable to find an equaliser.

ROBINS SHOCKER AT SUTTON
5^TH APRIL 1978
SUTTON TOWN 6 ILKESTON TOWN 1
Ilkeston appeared to lack pride and they certainly fell apart far too easily. The score could have been much worse. Benjamin hit the post for Sutton early on but it was Ilkeston who took the lead when Sutton ‘keeper Straw spilled a corner for a soft goal. Hall equalised for the home side on 25 minutes and Greensmith made it two four minutes before half time.

Ilkeston collapsed in the second half as Sutton ran riot. Hall scored the third on 51 minutes, former Ilkeston defender Steve Renshaw made it four, and Greensmith and Benjamin added further goals. Renshaw hit the post for Sutton late in the game.

DOWNIE DRAGS TOWN OFF BOTTOM
8^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 1 LONG EATON UNITED 1
Clyde Downie’s late equaliser lifted Ilkeston off the bottom of the table for the first time since August but The Robins were left to rue a string of missed chances that cost them victory. Ilkeston began the game well, Nick Jarvis testing Inger with a free kick and Mick Slaney heading just wide. At the other end Steve Bunting did well to keep out an effort by future Ilkeston manager Steve Holder. And it was Holder who gave Long Eaton an undeserved lead on 15 minutes when he scored with a brilliantly taken goal from 25 yards following Bunting’s miskicked clearance. Ilkeston shaded the first half but went in at the break a goal behind, Dick Fleckney missing a good chance to equalise when he beat the offside trap only to shoot wide.

Ilkeston dominated the play after half time. Fleckney’s fine pass found Clyde Downie who shot wide, and Fleckney provided a glorious chance for Slaney who shot over the bar. Slaney, Paul Marshall and Clyde Downie missed more chances, and when Inger dropped the ball on the line Ilkeston were unable to force the ball in. A defensive mistake produced Ilkeston’s long awaited equaliser, Clyde Downie taking full advantage by blasting into the roof of the net. In an exciting climax Long Eaton were denied what seemed to be a clear penalty.

KULIC MAGIC KILLS OFF TOWN
12^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 0 MEXBOROUGH TOWN ATHLETIC 2
Tony Downie hit the bar for Ilkeston early in the game but from that point on they were rarely in the contest. Kulic twice went close for the visitors before going on a run past three defenders and although his shot hit the post Oxer was on hand to score from the rebound in the 34^th minute. Two minutes before half time Kulic raced down the left and crossed for Cullen to score with a glancing header for the second.

Little went right for The Robins. Peter Malone suffered a knock, and when they were awarded an 85^th minute penalty for handball Dick Fleckney blazed over the bar.

LIFELESS TOWN HANDED REPRIEVE
15^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 2 BRIDLINGTON TRINITY 2
Lacklustre and disorganised, Ilkeston somehow managed to salvage a point after conceding two early goals. Bridlington took the lead after only 1 minute. Steve Bunting couldn’t hold Mellor’s shot and Adams rolled the loose ball home. They doubled their advantage in the 15^th minute when a superb move ended with Leadbeater weaving through the defence to fire into the net. Town grabbed themselves a lifeline before half time, Dick Fleckney scoring from the spot after Clyde Downie was brought down.

Ilkeston began the second half positively, and Alan Newton went through only to shoot tamely at the ‘keeper. Town’s heads dropped when the goal didn’t come and it needed a moment of brilliance in the last minute to snatch a point. Clyde Downie’s perfectly executed chip gave The Robins a draw they scarcely deserved.

FOUR STAR ROBINS GO GOAL CRAZY
19^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 4 SUTTON TOWN 0
Ilkeston shocked Sutton, and probably themselves, when they scored four times in the opening 35 minutes. Peter Malone scored twice, Alan Newton shot in from an acute angle, and Mick Slaney headed in a corner.

Sutton came much more into the game after half time but as they made little headway thanks to several Steve Bunting saves it became a fiery affair. Newton picked up a booking as did Sutton’s Smith and Benjamin.

BRIGG WIN TITLE IN STYLE
22^ND APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 1 BRIGG TOWN 5
Brigg’s celebrations lasted long after the final whistle as they won the Midland Counties League title in style. Yet Ilkeston were the better side in the first half and went in at the break with a deserved lead. The poor playing surface didn’t stop The Robins from playing some good football and both Clyde Downie and Nick Jarvis sent in good shots. When Downie was brought down just before half time Alan Newton cracked in a tremendous left foot free kick to give Ilkeston the lead. Bloomer came close to a quick equaliser on the stroke of half time.

From the moment Williams equalised for Brigg on 47 minutes Ilkeston appeared to lose heart and pride. He scored again four minutes later, Drinkell added the third, and a Martin header made it four on 67 minutes. Sykes completed Brigg’s historic afternoon with a fifth goal late on.

ILKESTON STILL NOT SAFE
24^TH APRIL 1978
KIMBERLEY TOWN 2 ILKESTON TOWN 0
In a match that Kimberley had to win to stand a chance of avoiding finishing bottom Ilkeston shaded the first half. But the home side improved after the break to win a scrappy encounter and draw level with Ilkeston on points. Kimberley took the lead on 66 minutes when Haslam headed in a Stevens cross. In the last minute Jones, who earlier hit the post and had a goal ruled out, made it two with a fine shot. Ilkeston’s best effort of the game was a Tony Downie shot that went wide. With Kimberley’s season over The Robins needed to avoid two heavy defeats in their remaining couple of fixtures to avoid having to apply for re-election.

BISHOP ANSWERS ILKESTON PRAYERS
26^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 1 HEANOR TOWN 1
Kevin Bishop’s late goal meant that Ilkeston avoided having to apply for re-election. Yet they were fortunate to escape defeat in what was a dull game. During the game Heanor’s Pursehouse twice shot wide from good positions and another of his shots brought a superb save out of Steve Bunting. Heanor went in front on 68 minutes when Deakin headed in a corner. Ilkeston, who created little throughout, equalised five minutes from time. Following an Alan Newton corner Paul Wheatley’s shrewd pass found Bishop who rifled the ball into the roof of the net.

GOAL RIOT PROVIDES END OF SEASON FUN
29^TH APRIL 1978
ILKESTON TOWN 4 RETFORD TOWN 4
With the pressure off both teams a feast of end to end attacking play provided some rich entertainment. Retford went in front in the 18^th minute through a Nicholson penalty after Alan Newton fouled Smith. Ilkeston equalised 4 minutes later when Clyde Downie ran into the area and the ball broke for Kevin Bishop to force into the net. Retford regained the lead on 26 minutes when Layden converted a fine Smith cross and they were on top for a spell, but Ilkeston equalised again two minutes before half time through Mick Slaney who broke clear to shoot past the ‘keeper.

Steve Bunting made an important save early in the second half to keep Ilkeston on level terms. Then, on 58 minutes, they took the lead for the first time as Bishop took advantage of a ‘keeper error following a cross. But Retford bounced back straight away to draw level within a minute when Nicholson fired a tremendous 25 yard shot in off the bar. Play remained frantic and evenly balanced before Clyde Downie put Ilkeston ahead again. Downie then had a goal disallowed as The Robins appeared to be heading for victory. But Retford had the last word when they equalised in the final minute.