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Cox in positive mood for local derby clash with Ilkeston
EASTWOOD Town manager Paul Cox says tghis weekend's local derby with Ilkeston Town will be treated the same as any other despite both clubs being in different kinds of trouble.
While a huge cloud hangs over the Robins' future as a football club, the Badgers have their own agenda as they possess a poor record against their biggest rivals and are desperately trying to get their season going after only one win from the first six league games.
But Cox is adamant none of those issues will play a part once kick off arrives.
He said: "It's a local derby and that almost guarantees a passionate encounter that both players and fans are desperate to win.
"Obviously we have not had the best start to the season and we are all aware of the financial problems Ilkeston are having, but you have to put those issues aside for 90 competitive minutes and let football do the talking."
But Cox still took time out to emphasise his hopes that Ilkeston Town will overcome their current problems.
"It doesn't matter who it is, you never want to see a club in such difficulties" he said.
"But with Ilkeston I have genuine hopes they survive because I used to play for them and have great memories of them from my time there."
Last Saturday saw the first victory of the season arrive with a 2-1 home win over Corby Town and that was followed by a 1-0 loss at Boston United, which despite being another defeat, saw the Badgers boss pleased with his side's effort.
He said: "After the Boston game a few of their fans were saying they couldn't believe we haven't got anything from the game and that we were the best side they have played so far.
"Our keeper John Danby hardly had a shot to save all afternoon except for the header which went in.
"We are just not having the luck at the moment which is really frustrating but we have to keep working hard. The win against Corby was rewarding but the players are ending most games feeling gutted because they feel they deserved more."
The Badgers boss was also keen to set the record straight with regard to rumours that some players had left the club, explaining they had merely been made available temporarily.
He said: "We released a circular saying four players were available in order to get some much needed football under their belts.
"Ryan Handbury is set to go to Southwell on loan, Jermain Hollis has gone to Rainworth and John Leonard, who is still registered with Mansfield Town, was only here as a short-term option but could still have a role to play.
"Ian Deakin is the only player of that group who has emphasised his desire to leave permanently in order to get some football.
"I'd emphasise to fans that unless news is published on our official website then any rumours should be deemed untrue, as they can have an adverse affect on the players."
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Weather for Eastwood
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -4 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -0 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South west
