Gainsborough face Ilkeston Town at The Northolme, Gainsborough on Tuesday, Oct 13 at 8:45 PM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the Northern Premier League, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Gainsborough come into this fixture struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5). Ilkeston Town travel struggling badly (0W 4L in last 5), which may hand the initiative to the hosts.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — Gainsborough and Ilkeston Town have split their 6 meetings almost evenly (1W–3D–2W). Their last encounter ended in a 0–0 draw.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Gainsborough a slight edge, but Ilkeston Town are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.