The Whites gave an excellent all round performance at Premier League Ilkeston last night and deserved to take the Robins to at least a penalty shoot-out.

There was nothing to separate the two sides in terms of fitness and quality which shows just how good the Whites were considering they were up against a full time professional outfit.

In fact the Whites had a far better first half than their opponents who must have gone in at half time wondering what had hit them.

Ilkeston had nine regular first teamers playing but failed to overcome a Whites side full of skill and determination.

The Robins must have had a rocket from their manager at the break because they started the second half in a much livelier frame of mind.

They dominated the opening 15 minutes after the interval and went one up after a curling 20 yarder from Michael Williams found the Whites net.

The home team must have thought they had the game won but they severely underestimated the fighting qualities of the Gaffer's men.

Michael Jacklin stunned the home supporters when he headed home a zipping free kick from Matt Cotton in the 70th minute.

It was no more than the visitors deserved.

After soaking up more pressure the Whites defence finally cracked when a low shot from David Morgan skidded past a diving Robert Peet three minutes from normal time.

Relief was on the faces of the Ilkeston crowd and players at the final whistle. Pride was on the faces of the Whites supporters.

Disappointment was on the faces of a Whites side that came away with pride and the knowledge they were more than a match for title chasing Ilkeston.

Well done lads. Excellent performance which deserved a better reward.

Peter Hayward