THERE’S no time for anyone to feel sorry for themselves at Hurst Cross. Seven days after the heartbreak of losing to Southport, ASHTON UNITED have to lift themselves for a National League North game at Altrincham.
And if last week’s FA Cup encounter was a clash of opposing styles, tomorrow (Saturday’s) match is one between two similar philosophies, Robins boss Jody Banim believes.
“It’s a big game and we’re under no illusions about tomorrow afternoon. We know we’re in for a tough time,” he commented.
“Alty are a very good team and have some very good players. I’ve spoken to a lot of managers this year and they all say Altrincham played them off the park but didn’t manage to win.
“We know what they’re about. They have a similar shape and style to us, both of us came up last season and there’s only a couple of points between us. We even have the same nickname, the Robins.”
Banim was loth to disclose any team news but it seems likely he could largely stick to the side that lost at Haig Avenue but with the inclusion of midfielder Scott Kay who has been signed from FC United.
CURZON ASHTON head up to Spennymoor, a club that beat their neighbours from Hurst Cross 5-0 a fortnight ago.
Ryan Brooke and Paul Marshall are both unavailable, the latter because of a virus. Jack O’Leary has suffered a recurrence of a calf strain and is rated 50/50
Danny Morton’s hamstring is improving and he should be back by mid-November.
Luke Porritt is the only doubt for HYDE UNITED who are home to Bamber Bridge in the first round of FA Trophy where a victory would scoop £3,250 in prize money.
However, Kyle Harrison and Ross Daley have recovered from knocks and will be available for selection alongside new midfielder/defender Jerome Wright who has been signed from Ramsbottom.
Transfer-listed Gavin Rothery has joined Pontefract Collieries on loan until the end of the season.
Stockport County centre-half Chris Smalley goes straight into the STALYBRIDGE CELTIC team for their Trophy tie against Nantwich Town at Bower Fold.
Manager Simon Haworth is looking for a big response from his fully-fit squad after they slid to defeat at NPL premier division bottom club Lancaster in midweek.
Bridge take on Nantwich seeking their first cup-tie win of Haworth’s tenure and their first victory in five games.
Fresh from their DROYLSDEN travel to picturesque Pickering Town. Domaine Rouse is suspended and Shaq Clarke needs a fitness check on a sore foot.
Andy Hollins’s loan spell from Southport has been extended until January 6. Levi Philips is back at the Butchers Arms on loan from Carlshalton Athletic until January 26 with permission to play in FA Trophy and Manchester Premier Cup ties.
MOSSLEY and GLOSSOP NORTH END do not have games. At the start of the week the Hillmen signed former Seel Park centre-half Jamie McClellan from West Didsbury and Chorlton.