The Elks made the long trip into Lincolnshire to face Sleaford for their third league game of the season. Once again a much changed side took the field, with seven players making their first appearance for the 3's.

It was The Elks who dominated the first 10 mins with their superior pack dominating forward play. The pressure eventually turned into points when quick ball through the backs saw Jetski touch down in the corner.

Sleaford then came back into the game and with their speedy back line scored two tries in quick succession, to make the score 12 - 5. Two well converted penalties from Jimmy Knowles saw The Elks turn around at half time 12 - 11 down.

Playing against the wind, the second half looked to be a tough 40 mins but after sustained pressure in the Sleaford 22, Big Red took matters into his own hands and stormed through the trailing defence to score, Jimbo converted.

The Elks then went to sleep for the next 10 minutes, as straight from the re-start Sleaford scored under the posts, followed by another soft try. As play went into the last 10 minutes Ilkeston were trailing 26 - 18, but to their credit battled their way back into the game.

Intelligent play from stand in scrum half Rob Flowerdew, saw the ball move wide to Jimbo, who scored in the corner. He was desperately unlucky to see the touch line conversion come of the bar.

The Elks were now playing with confidence and a fantastic break form midfield by Jetski, saw them get a scrum deep into Sleaford's 22. A solid scrum, which was consistent all game, saw Big Red pick up and charge over the line, to make the score 26 - 28.

The referee soon blew for full time, to see The Elks register their fifth straight win.

This was a great all round team effort with all 19 players taking credit for great commitment and a neversay die attitude. Notable performances from Rowly, Jetski and Big Red, but man of the match went to prop Matt Stanbridge, who put in a huge performance.