RECENT results — and performances — suggest STALYBRIDGE CELTIC could be going to Broadhurst Park tomorrow (Saturday) as lambs to the slaughter when they face FC United in National League North.
Celtic have failed to score in any of their last three outings, and have lost two of them. Their showing against Worcester last weekend, where they were beaten 1-0 by a side that hadn’t won since November, was so poor that club officials lined up to criticise it in Tuesday’s programme.
Chairman Rob Gorski described the failure to perform as the most almighty of hammer blows. Press officer Keith Trudgeon expressed his dismay at those players who didn’t seem to be busting a gut for the cause.
Manager Steve Burr, who was livid after the Worcester game according to Rob Gorski’s notes, added: “No matter what happens between now and the end of the season, I will ensure that absolute effort and commitment is given from myself and the players. Of that you have my assurance.”
Perhaps because Rebels boss Karl Marginson was at Bower Fold on Tuesday, the Bridge are refusing to reveal much in the way of team news. It’s believed the squad is carrying several knocks and Matty Regan must be doubtful after the hamstring injury that led to him being substituted against Telford.
James Baillie misses CURZON ASHTON’s home clash with Gloucester after suffering a groin-pull during the warm-up before Monday’s game with FC United.
Niall Cummins is doubtful with a hip/groin problem and Ryan Hall is 50/50 with a knee injury.
The Nash have designated tomorrow a community family day and admission prices have been halved. There will also be prize draws and entertainment.
In the Evo-stik NPL premier division, ASHTON UNITED co-boss Jody Banim has paid tribute to loan striker Jack Dyche who has been recalled by Scunthorpe United.
“Jack’s done really, really well for us and hopefully will be able to cement his place in their squad until the end of the season,” said Banim.
“He was different class on and off the field and never gave us a moment’s mither. He goes back to Glanford Park with our very best wishes.”
Midfielder Rick Smith misses tomorrow’s Hurst Cross clash with Corby Town and probably the rest of the season. He has a knee injury and had a hospital scan this afternoon.
Reflecting on defeats by Marine and Bamber Bridge, Banim said: “They were two dreadful, dreadful performances and I don’t know where they came from. Some clubs can have a bad day and grind out a draw or a 1-0 win, but not us.
“The play-offs are out of the question now. All we can do is concentrate on finishing as strongly as we can and getting our plans in place for next season.”
In the first division north, form club HYDE UNITED, who have lost only two league matches since Christmas, are at full strength for the visit of Ramsbottom United.
GLOSSOP NORTH END, who are looking play-off certs, have no absentees for their game at home to Bamber Bridge.
DROYLSDEN are away to title favourites Farsley Celtic but ought to be in confident mood after last week’s 6-1 victory over Ossett Town at the Butchers Arms.
Steve Hall is suspended after being shown a red card for an altercation at the dug-out, after he had been substituted, and Scott Metcalfe is injured. However, Domaine Rouse returns after serving a two-game ban.
MOSSLEY take on Scarborough at Seel Park with Jason Hill and Rob Flynn available for selection. Danny Stapleton is rated 50/50, while James Blair and Mitchell Bryant have work commitments.