FC head to Ilkeston as keeper hangs up gloves

Ilkeston

As FC United travel to Ilkeston on Saturday, manager Karl Marginson has called on his players to put in the same type of performance as they did on Tuesday night but this time take their chances and all three points.

Margy believes that, despite the disappointing last minute 2-1 defeat against league leaders Skelmersdale, Tuesday was our best performance of the season. He said: "We were unfortunate not to get all three points, never mind none."

To add insult to injury, Margy believes that Aidan Kirkbride’s last gasp winner was off-side. Something that is supported by the footage available on FCUM.TV. But he added: "You get little bits of luck over the season and Skelmersdale got theirs on Tuesday.

"We have to move on and there are plenty of positives to take from the performance. I thought Jerome Wright. Michael Norton and Dean Stott were fantastic Tuesday. Andy Welsh also got into some good positions. I’ll be expecting more of the same tomorrow."

Unfortunately, Margy could be without captain Stott for the next few games as he has a shoulder injury and must serve a one game suspension a week on Saturday for picking up five yellow cards.

Meanwhile, Nick Culkin has decided to hang up his gloves and retire from the game but he will be remaining at the club as a goalkeeping coach working alongside Paul Chapman. Margy said: "It’s always a shame when a player retires but we’re delighted that Nick is going to continue sharing his skills and experiences as a coach with the first team."

Margy also revealed that young forward, Connor Bower will be playing for Ossett Town over the next few weeks. Margy explained: "It makes sense for Connor to go there to get some games as it’s near where he lives. We have an understanding with John Reed (Ossett manager) that Connor will be available to play for us if required."

Ilkeston versus FC United of Manchester is this Saturday at Awsworth Road with kick-off at the supporter friendly time of three o’clock. Get yourself to that football ground.