LAST day, last game, last-chance saloon.
STALYBRIDGE CELTIC’s Evo-stik NPL premier division future will be decided tomorrow (Saturday) when they face Grantham at Bower Fold.
Celtic, who hold a one-point advantage and a superior goal difference, need to win if their fate is not to be left in the hands of others. Yet it’s hard to see where that win might come from, even in such a crucial match.
Bridge have not only lost ten out of their last 11 games, they have struggled to score all season — a weakness that was starkly apparent at Hyde United on Monday when they piled on pressure throughout the second half but without any success.
The last time they hit three goals was on September 22, when they beat Matlock 3-1. They have found the net only seven times in their long slump and just once in their last five matches.
Top scorer Neil Kengni has notched only a single goal since the start of March.
Midfielder Ross Dent returns after a three-game suspension, which means manager Simon Haworth has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Despite their horrendous run of form in 2019, Celtic have shown flashes of ability. They beat Scarborough, and outplayed league leaders Farsley even though they lost 2-1. The question is, which side of their character will Bridge display against Grantham?
Whatever happens, there is likely to be a sense of relief at the final whistle if only for the end of what has been a tempestuous season off the field as well as on it. Boardroom disagreements and resignations have torn the club apart, creating an atmosphere that Haworth has publicly described as toxic.
Serious problems need to be addressed over the summer if Stalybridge are to progress next year and avoid what is becoming an annual battle with relegation.
DROYLSDEN could be lacking three players as they wind up the campaign at home to Prescot Cables.
Stavros Tserpe is suspended, Shaq Clarke has a damaged hamstring and Harry Pratt is doubtful.
Brandon Wilkes and Matty Hanson come into the GLOSSOP NORTH END squad for the clash with Runcorn Linnets at Surrey Street.
Szymon Czubik (back) and Adam Latham (ankle) are both injured. Jack O’Leary has been recalled by Curzon Ashton.
MOSSLEY have a full squad for their game at Clitheroe.
In National League North, CURZON ASHTON will have to face Spennymoor Town without Cameron McJannett who has been recalled by Stoke City.
Louis Wardle is ill and several players are carrying knocks, forcing manager Mark Bradshaw to recall Jack O’Leary from Glossop. Ryan Shenton is available after suspension.
Relegated ASHTON UNITED are so short of men for their derby clash with Altrincham that manager Jody Banim may have to put himself on the bench.
Among those unavailable are Jamie Reid (away), Toby Lees (recalled), Javid Swaby-Neavin (injured) and Liam Goulding who’s not allowed to play because he’s on loan from Altrincham.
Banim commented: “We’re down to the bare bones, which is never ideal, but especially when you’re playing Alty.”
He added: “I’m already working on a squad for next season and have some signings in the pipeline.
“This is the first time I’ve ever known relegation in my entire career. But we’ll be back.”