Weekend Non-league Football Previews
IF some people cave in under pressure and others thrive on it, MOSSLEY co-boss Dave Wild is definitely in the latter camp.
Tomorrow (Saturday) his side travel to Leek Town for a match that could have a huge say on who claims the fourth play-off place in the Evo-stik NPL first division west where both sides have 58 points from 32 games.
Most people would find a daunting scenario but Wild’s reaction is “bring it on”.
He explained: “People get a bit panicky but to be honest I’m looking forward to it. I went into football management so I could be involved in matches like this, so why would I not want it? There’s going to be two teams, two managers and two sets of fans really up for it. I can’t wait.
“And if you think about it, is it really a six-pointer? The league has been so close, so up and down, this season that if we get beaten tomorrow I don’t think it’s a case of that’s it, the chance has gone.
“There’s a month left — six league games and the Manchester Premier Cup final which means seven cup finals. What will be, will be. We’ve got to stay calm, be tough, prepare properly, do our bit and not be gung-ho.
“I don’t think anybody in the world of non-league ever thought we’d be where we are at this point in the season. We need to enjoy it.”
Wild says he has a full squad to choose from, adding: “We’re good to go.”
Leek manager Neil Baker seems to be of a similar opinion. Speaking to Stoke-on-Trent Live he commented: “It’s a big game for both teams tomorrow, full stop, and my players are fully aware of the challenge ahead of them.
“We’ve got a really big month ahead of us now and, to be honest, I’m quite happy because we are still in with a good chance of finishing in the play-off spots.
“Every game is vital. Some results might not go as planned, but I’m sure that’s the same for the rest of the teams now we are getting to the business end.”
GLOSSOP NORTH END are at full strength for their visit to Trafford, and the same applies to DROYLSDEN who are away to Ramsbottom. Jack Pirie and Dylan Smith have been released.
In then premier division, STALYBRIDGE CELTIC — who have lost six out of their last seven matches — face play-off chasing Basford seeking to end a run of three consecutive defeats at Bower Fold.
Manager Simon Haworth has a full squad for what is only his fifth home game of 2019. Midfielder Greg Wilkinson is back after injury and Ross Dent plays for the last time before starting a three-match suspension.
Kyle Brownhill and John McCombe should both be back for HYDE UNITED at Gainsborough Trinity. Tom Pratt is also expected to play after suffering a reoccurrence of his injury last Saturday which caused him to be substituted.
Deane Smalley, Matty Hughes and Ryan Crowther all face fitness tests.
In National League North, ASHTON UNITED manager Jody Banim accepts that it’s looking grim for his side, but he’s still refusing to go down without a fight.
The Robins, who have lost their last six matches were defeated at Leamington a week ago, which has left them seven points adrift of safety with only five games to go.
“Mathematically we’ve still got a chance but speaking realistically it’s going to be very tough,” said Banim.
“If we can win tomorrow, Guiseley lose, and then we beat them the week after we might have a chance. But it’s going to be difficult at against Spennymoor at Hurst Cross. They’re a very good side and in fourth place.
“It’s a tough ask but we’ll give it a bash.”
Scott Kay (suspended), Ryan Jennings and Luke Ashworth are all sidelined.
Manager Mark Bradshaw picks from the same squad as last week for CURZON ASHTON'S home encounter with Leamington. Olly Crankshaw and Sean Miller remain injured.