ASHTON UNITED are fighting fit for tomorrow (Saturday’s) Evo-stik NPL premier division game at promotion rivals Workington.
Since mid-October, the Robins have quietly put together a highly impressive run. Possibly because of the number of cup ties played they have moved into the play-off places almost unnoticed. Yet Ashton are heading to Cumbria on the back of a ten-game unbeaten run in the league where they have won their last eight matches.
Victory at Borough Park would take them four points clear of Workington and keep them within striking distance of leaders Blyth Spartans for the championship and the only automatic promotion place.
Defender Cavell Coo returns to the Hurst Cross squad after recovering from a knock. Veteran striker Jodie Banim has been loaned to Radcliffe Borough to allow him to get some match practice.
It’s an entirely different scenario for HYDE UNITED who are away to Sutton Coldfield. The Tigers, who were looking good for a play-off place at the end of October have won only once in their last 13 games — a Cheshire Senior Cup tie against Stockport Town. They have lost six out of their last seven NPL games, drawing one.
Manager Gary Lowe has a long injury list ahead of the journey to the Midlands. Striker Scott Spencer, who has a knee problem, is the only player definitely out. However, Ben Woods has been suffering from food poisoning and is very doubtful.
Sam Fitton and Reece Gray both face late fitness tests. Fitton pulled up in training last night and there are fears that his hamstring injury may have flared up again. Gray has a damaged calf muscle. Defender Lee Neville has left Ewen Fields.
Striker Niall Cummins is available for CURZON ASHTON who are home to Boston United in Vanarama North. He has recovered from dental surgery and could be included in tomorrow’s squad. Defender Jack Truelove has completed his loan spell and returned to Oldham Athletic.
STALYBRIDGE CELTIC will be without Dale Wright as they travel to Cheltenham to take on Gloucester City in their first away game of 2016. The influential midfielder limped off with damaged angle ligaments in the new year draw with Curzon Ashton and is unlikely to be fit for Tuesday’s scheduled home clash with Harrogate Town.
However, Watson did receive some good news this week as an MRI scan on leading scorer Jack Higgins revealed no major damage. Higgins could return tomorrow, although Tuesday is a more likely bet.
In the Evo-stik NPL first division north, MOSSLEY, home to Ossett Albion, and GLOSSOP NORTH END, away to leaders Northwich Victoria, both have full squads to pick from. DROYLSDEN, who go to Brighouse Town, have doubts over Lee O’Brien (hamstring).