VICTORY at Hurst Cross tomorrow (Saturday) could take ASHTON UNITED into the Evo-stik NPL premier division play-off places if other results go their way.
The Robins, currently seventh in the table, play Sutton Coldfield who, despite being in lower midtable, were good enough to beat Stalybridge Celtic in the FA Trophy third qualifying round. However, Ashton boast an impressive Trophy pedigree of their own having defeated Gainsborough Trinity on Tuesday to line up a visit to National League Macclesfield Town next week.
Co-bosses Paul Phillips and Steve Halford report no injuries or suspensions as they look to extend their unbeaten run to five matches.
HYDE UNITED could do their neighbours a good turn by winning at sixth-placed Halesowen Town. The Tigers, who stemmed a run of league defeats by drawing 1-1 with Frickley a week ago, will be without Andy Pearson and Rhys Gray, both of whom are suspended after being sent off in the game at Ilkeston on November 21 which ended with both teams involved in a mass brawl.
In the first division north, MOSSLEY entertain Brighouse with three players banned: Kyle McGonigle, Andy Keogh and Tom Pratt. Only the suspended Domaine Rouse is unavailable for DROYLSDEN who are away to Ossett Town.
GLOSSOP NORTH END have no match.
In Vanarama North CURZON ASHTON have what looks an excellent chance to pick themselves up off the canvas after Tuesday’s 2-0 reverse at Brackley when they are home to bottom side Telford United.
Ryan Brooke remains suspended. Connor Hampson and Joe Guest are both doubtful with slight hamstring problems.
STALYBRIDGE CELTIC take the short hop over the Pennines to Bradford Park Avenue looking to put last week’s poor performance at Sutton Coldfield behind them.
Manager Liam Watson is only missing defender Danny Wisdom (ankle) but is likely to make changes after the FA Trophy defeat.
Forwards Chris Simm and Alex Johnson may be promoted from the bench, and John Shaw could return to the defence after being out with an ankle injury.
Striker Daniel Burns, signed from North West Counties League first division club Northwich Manchester Villa, goes straight into the squad and is expected to play some part.