Chances were at a premium especially in the second half but despite Ilkeston boss Gavin Strachan naming a first team line-up, alongside a couple of unknown trialists, Basford produced a solid, team performance and will take a number of positives from the game, despite the lack of goal-scoring opportunities.

With the new season less than two-weeks away, United manager Martin Carruthers was able to name another strong squad and included last season’s top scorer Reuben Wiggins-Thomas named amongst the substitutes and making his first appearance of the pre-season after recovering from injury.

Inside the first two minutes, Robins’ keeper Evandro Rocina was called into action, making a good save to deny Rob McCormick’s close-range header.

Cory Grantham then miscued a half-chance on 31 minutes before the action quickly moved to the opposite end of the pitch, with Saul Deeney making a fine, flying save to deny Charlie Coulson’s effort, which was then closely followed by Jon Edwards putting a low shot just wide of Deeney’s left-hand post.

Grantham then almost put Basford in front in first-half stoppage time, after the former Ilkeston man’s cheeky lob just cleared the visitors’ crossbar and there was still time for Edwards to rattle United’s woodwork seconds later, with a fearsome shot from 25 yards out.

There was little incident to report after the break, with Deeney pouncing on a dithering Michael Williams on 72 minutes to deny the Robins a good chance at breaking the deadlock and the closest Basford came to ending the stalemate came three minutes later, when after some good work on the right-hand side of the field, Jake Wholey was unable to connect fully on the crossed ball, slicing the ball high and wide.

United’s thoughts now turn to their final pre-season fixture on Saturday afternoon, as Evo-Stik First Division North side Brighouse Town are the visitors to Greenwich Avenue. Kick off is at 3pm and admission prices are £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.