THE weather will be the key factor in tomorrow (Saturday’s) games. Constant snow and rain have created a huge element of doubt and svereal pitch inspections have already been arranged.
There will be one at 10am at Shaw Lane, ahead of the game with Stalybridge Celtic, at 10.30am at Ramsbottom where Hyde United will be the visitors, and also at Hurst Cross.
In the Evo-stik NPL premier division STALYBRIDGE CELTIC boss Steve Burr again has a fully fit squad to choose from, with influential midfielder Greg Wilkinson having recovered from an ankle injury he picked up in training.
With bad weather placing the game very much in the balance it is likely Celtic’s long wait for a Saturday away win will stretch to at least 63 weeks.
ASHTON UNITED have striker problems as they await the visit of bottom club Sutton Coldfield. Matty Chadwick and Jack Dyche are injured but manager Jody Banim insists the club will manage.
Lanre Olapede and Jack Pritchard are both back in contention, and Josh Granite is running again and should be available for selection at the start of January.
In the first division north, DROYLSDEN are effectively at full strength to take on Ossett Town at the Butchers Arms. Their only absentee is Alex Frost who could be missing until February.
GLOSSOP NORTH END play Skelmersdale at Surrey Street without Alex Pearce who has returned to Bolton Wanderers. There is still no sign of a return for Jay Gorton.
Luke Porritt returns to the HYDE UNITED squad for the visit to Ramsbottom. Karl Jones remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Rio Ahmadi features for MOSSLEY at Trafford after missing the Boxing Day defeat at Glossop.
On Monday (New Year’s Day) Paul Marshall returns to CURZON ASHTON for their home clash with Bradford Park Avenue in National League North, having finally recovered from a heel problem.
However, Oliver Thornley is doubtful because of a virus and Joe Guest is 50/50 with a toe injury.