By Liam Price
The Dabbers kick off November with a home match with City of Liverpool this Saturday (3pm kick-off).
Purps-le Rain
There’s been quite the change in fortunes for City of Liverpool. From an outstanding season last time that saw them go all the way to the play-off final, losing to Prescot, they are currently second bottom of the NPL West and winless in their last 5 games. They were defeated on Monday night in their most recent game, losing 1-0 at home to Newcastle Town.
That proved to be the final act of manager Paul McNally, who oversaw that great season but has struggled this time round and left his role on Tuesday. The social media reaction from City of Liverpool supporters to this news seemed almost universally negative as they perhaps felt he had enough credit in the bank to be allowed a chance to turn around the slow start, also citing the recent change of home ground to Widnes’ DCBL Stadium and the unusual schedule they’ve had to follow as a result. At time of writing it’s not clear who’ll be taking charge on Saturday.
Results wise, going further back it’s just 1 win in 9. Their 2 wins this season in the league have come away from home. Other recent games have seen defeat to Runcorn and draws with Trafford, Wythenshawe Town and Chasetown. They have kept just one clean sheet in the league, and not since the second game of the season.
Last Time We Met
Our last game against the Purps was our final home game of last season in April. The visitors claimed a 2-1 victory to continue their quest for the play-offs, at the same time ending Nantwich’s very slim hopes of the same. Callum Saunders was on the scoresheet for the Dabbers. Highlights below.
Players to Watch
Despite their struggles, City of Liverpool remain a talented squad, with most of last season’s team still remaining, albeit effected by injuries. The top scorer is Elliot Morris with an outstanding 12 goals in 19 games in all competitions. He tends to wear the number 7 shirt but don’t let that deceive you, he is the main goalscoring threat.
Danny Mitchley and Arthur Lomax-Jones are the other players who’ve scored more than twice this season. Tom Reilly, who started the season at the Dabbers but left after 4 appearances, should be in midfield for them.
Match Information
Tickets are available online HERE or on the gate with cash/card. Dogs are allowed so long as they are kept on a lead.
Please try to use the available parking on site, including the overflow parking if the main car park is full. If you have to use on street parking near the stadium, please be respectful of residents.