Shaun Goater leads Ilkeston to first win in four months on managerial debut

SHAUN GOATER enjoyed a winning start to life in charge of Evo-Stik NPL Premier strugglers Ilkeston – guiding them to their first victory in four months.

The Manchester City legend was appointed on Friday to replace Paul Holland who decided to step down with the Robins deep in trouble.

Ilkeston had drawn two and lost 15 of their previous 17 league games to leave them second bottom of the table and facing relegation to Step 4.

Goater, drafted in for his first managerial job, made an immediate impression and saw his new side take a vital three points against fellow strugglers Sutton Coldfield on Saturday.

Dexter Atkinson’s early goal was enough for the Robins as they celebrated a victory for the first time since their 3-2 success at Coalville on October 22.

There is still plenty for Goater to do, however, with Ilkeston still second bottom of the Evo-Stik NPL Premier and ten points adrift of safety.

The Robins know they will have to take advantage of the games they have in hand – including Tuesday night’s game against Hednesford – over their rivals to climb out of trouble.

Goater told the club’s website: “I hope the whole town and the fans buy into what we are trying to do here and all get right behind the players, I cannot stress too much the vital part the fans can play as we strive for points.

“My job is to get the technical and tactical situations right. So come down to the NMG in numbers and let’s make something happen.”