Ilkeston given green light to finally begin their NPL Premier season

Pic: Mike Capps

ILKESTON have finally been given the green light to kick off their Evo-Stik NPL Premier campaign on Saturday against Ashton United.

The Robins’ licence to play in the Step 3 division was revoked just before the start of the season and their opening four games against Stafford Rangers, Whitby Town, Stourbridge and Spennymoor Town were all postponed.

The Derbyshire outfit are in debt to other clubs, former players and previous employees and the league charged them earlier this week for not playing their opening fixtures despite them being suspended.

Ilkeston will, however, finally start their season on Saturday as they host Ashton United after the Northern Premier League confirmed the game will go ahead.

In a statement, Ilkeston said: “Ilkeston FC will belatedly get their 2016-17 campaign underway tomorrow, with a home game against Ashton United.

“After missing the first four games due to a league suspension everyone at Ilkeston FC is excited to finally have football back at the New Manor Ground.

“Tomorrow’s visitors have got off to a good start in this campaign with two victories and two draws and now sit in second place in the league on eight points.”