Gresley Rovers vs Ilkeston Town
Gresley Rovers deserved to win by a bigger margin than 3-2 against old rivals Ilkeston Town in their first qualifying round FA Cup tie at the Moat Ground on 25th September 1953.
Ilkeston rarely looked dangerous until the last ten minutes when they fought for an equaliser.
Rovers defence was considerably strengthened by the inclusion of John Wood at right back and the return of Fred Tapping to the full back position.
Rovers opened on the attack and the visitors' goal was lucky to survive two quick raids in the first five minutes.
Ilkeston's first chance came in the 8th minute when left-winger Ward raced away. He was challenged by Bill Storer and his hurried shot was easily saved by Simnett. More pressure followed and it was more luck than judgment that kept Rovers out until the 15th minute. Norman Smith was the scorer - he eluded the two full backs before firing past Joe Sharman.
Ilkeston equalised in the 25th minute when Jepson beat Simnett following a corner by Ledger. But five minutes later Rovers went in front again and had a strong penalty appeal turned down after a shot from Peter Bayles appeared to have handled, however Allen set up Green and he beat Sharman convincingly to restore Rovers' lead.
Early in the second half Allen and Green went close again and Sharman just managed to keep out a header from Smith.
Eventually Gresley regained the initiative and after Town's goal had had several escapes Ken Johnson scored the home team's third goal, which was scored from the penalty spot after a foul on Green who was brought down when he had a clear run to goal.
Ilkeston fought hard in the last 10 minutes, Simnett conceded a corner in making a great save but Ken Ledger scored from Wards flag kick.
Green and Bayles both went close but they failed to beat Ron Simnett who had an outstanding game.
Rovers: Simnett, Tapping, Wood, Webb, Storer, Hallam, Green, Smith, Bayles, Johnson, Allen.
Town: Sharman, Attwood, Ball, Commander, Baker, Haddland, Ledger, Falconbridge, Jepson, Booth, Ward.
