Bermuda’s Lejuan Simmons was in impressive form in Ilkeston FC’s goalless draw at home against Stafford Rangers in the Evo-Stik League at the weekend.

The former Devonshire Cougars winger forced a fine save from Rangers goalkeeper Jonathan Brain and also struck the bar before being replaced by compatriot Antwan Russell.

Ilkeston manager Kevin Wilson said: “Things are not going our way at the moment but it’s at times like this that you show your character.

“We have to battle our way through it and, for the youngsters in particular, it’s all part of the learning curve.

“We really ought to have won. The only clear-cut chance Stafford created was when the lad went clear straight after half time and we had stacks of opportunities at the other end.

“Scoring goals wasn’t a problem to us in the early part of the season. But it is now and we have to find a solution.”

Ilkeston, who have an official partnership with Bermuda Hogges, are currently ninth in the league table.

The Robins’ Academy side, including Bermuda’s Rai Simons, take on Accrington Stanley at the New Manor Ground in the second round of the FA Youth Cup tomorrow.

A mouth-watering tie against West Ham’s Academy awaits the winner in the third round proper.

Wilson added: “Our Academy lads have done fantastically well to get this far in the premier youth competition and hopefully there’s a few more miles left in the journey.

“Apart from winning their matches, the entertainment they have served up along the way has been outstanding.

“I’m sure that will be no different against Accrington and I urge all Ilkeston FC fans to do their best to be there.”