THE weather looks like being the only winner this weekend. The much-anticipated Friday night derby between ASHTON UNITED and HYDE UNITED was called off this afternoon, the Stalybridge game is in severe doubt and Droylsden and Curzon have arranged 9am pitch inspections tomorrow (Saturday).
Had the BetVictor NPL premier division match been played, the suspended Liam Tomsett would have been the only absentee for the Robins who signed young midfielder Harvey Macadam from NWCL first division north club Nelson on Wednesday.
The Tigers would have also been at virtual full strength with Harry Benns the only injury. Goalkeeper James Hodges has resumed training.
Advance tickets will be valid for the rearranged fixture whenever it takes place.
Deluges permitting, STALYBRIDGE CELTIC will have everyone available for their home clash with Witton Albion. They are hoping to build on last week’s impressive display at Gainsborough which was their first victory of 2020 and ended a run of eight games without a win.
In National League North, victory over Gloucester City at the Tameside Stadium would be a huge boost to CURZON ASHTON’s hopes of climbing away from the relegation places. Both clubs have 19 points, but although the Nash, in 19th place, have a better goal difference they have played two games more.
If the match goes ahead, Curzon will be without Danny Shaw, Nicky Wroe and James Baillie. Manager Mark Bradshaw is negotiating to make a signing overnight.
Gary Gee returns for MOSSLEY who travel to Clitheroe in the BetVictor NPL first division north west. Dieter Downey is ill and unable to play. Goalkeeper Theo Roberts has had the plaster removed from his broken wrist and is ready to start training.
The tale of woe continues for DROYLSDEN who have conceded 14 goals in their last three games.
Injuries mean they may have to entertain Runcorn Linnets without Keano Deacon, Jamie Frost, Kane Hickman and Shaq Clarke. Andy Langford has left the club by mutual consent and Tom Moore has moved to Inverness.
Midfielder Jackson Hulme has joined the Bloods from Kendal with striker Alex O’Neill coming in on loan from Accrington.
Scott Kay, who has one game left of his three-match ban, is the only absentee for GLOSSOP NORTH END who travel to Loughborough Town in the first division south east. Stalybridge defender Jack O’Leary has extended his stay at Surrey Street.