Bermuda’s Rai Simons emphasised his growing reputation after bagging a superb brace in Ilkeston Academy’s 7-4 extra-time win over Northampton Town Academy in the FA Youth Cup.

The Robins, who had already won four ties to claim a place in the first round proper, will now face Accrington Stanley at the New Manor Ground later this month.

Simons, who scored twice against St Andrews in the previous round, signed a two-year deal with Ilkeston in the summer.

Coach Kevin Wilson said: “As I keep on saying, this is what Ilkeston FC are all about and our supporters really need to buy into what we are doing at the New Manor Ground.

“At times the quality of our football in pouring rain on a saturated surface was exceptional and the fact that we have beaten a Football League team will be a big boost to the players’ confidence.

“There are lads in our dressing room who don’t quite realise how much ability they have. This result — and the performance — can only help in that respect.”