It was disappointment on the road as we fell to a 2-1 defeat in the Northern Premier League Premier Division against Lancaster City at the Giant Axe.
Anthony Dwyer gave us a deserved lead at the break following a strong half of football from the Robins.
However, two second half goals meant that despite a good showing, we would return to DE7 empty-handed.
Lancaster had the first opening of the contest just two minutes into proceedings, as a Steven Yawson strike forced Sam Wilson into an early intervention.
A fantastic move from the Robins paid dividends as we broke the deadlock after 17 minutes through Dwyer. The move started as Ash Hunter played a sublime ball out to Sonnie Davis, who put a perfectly placed delivery into the box. Jevin Seaton's effort was pushed away, but only as far as Dwyer who was on hand to convert.
The Dolly Blues were not far from a quick reply, as a volley from Dylan Moonan rattled the crossbar from distance.
Another opportunity came to pass for the visitors as Dom Lawson headed over from close-range, following some smart approach play.
Lancaster continued to probe for parity, as Toby Oliver headed wide from close range, following a delivery to the back post from a free kick.
Yawson went close again after 51 minutes, as he fired an effort at Wilson which forced a fine save from the Robins keeper'.
Charlie Bailey continued the relentless pressure on the Ilkeston backline for the Dolly Blues, as he fired over from 10 yards after 58 minutes.
Parity was restored after 62 minutes as Sam Bailey converted from the penalty spot, after Tom Jennings was penalised for a foul in the 12-yard area.
The hosts went close after 78 minutes, as Wilson made a big save before the rebound fell to Lawson, who skied over.
The turnaround was complete after 81 minutes, as a goalmouth scramble resulted in Jim Craig turning the ball in from point-blank range.
Lancaster were able to see out their lead fairly comfortably, ultimately condemning the Robins to defeat.
We return to action at the Microlise New Manor Ground on Tuesday night, as we entertain Guiseley AFC in league action, (7.45 KO).