Ilkeston Town face Gainsborough at New Manor Ground, Ilkeston, Derbyshire on Saturday, Feb 20 at 4:00 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.

Ilkeston Town come into this fixture struggling badly (0W 4L in last 5). Gainsborough, meanwhile, arrive struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks.

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

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