The Dabbers return to home action looking to put the disappointment of Tuesday at Trafford behind us, as Newcastle Town visit the Swansway Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
New and Then
Newcastle Town have lost their last 2 games, both narrowly; 2-1 to Clitheroe last time out and 4-3 to Stalybridge. Before that, they had 3 strong results from games against Widnes, Trafford and a win over then league leaders Kidsgrove.
They are solidly in mid-table, 12th on 14 points from 11 games, which is 1 point more than the Dabbers having played a game more. It should be noted that they have won 3 of their last 5 away games.
Last Time Out
The Dabbers and Newcastle have met in several pre-season friendlies in recent years but nothing in competitive football since the 2011/12 season. With thanks again to Retro Dabbers, in history the two sides have met 41 times, and Newcastle have the far superior record, winning 22 of those, the Dabbers winning 11, and 8 draws.
Players to Watch
Newcastle’s top scorer is their captain Tommy Van der Laan, who plays with his brother Jack, so it could be two sets of brothers out there if both the Ali’s start. Former Dabber Dan Cockerline had scored 4 goals in 6 appearances since joining them but he has since hotfooted it to Bury in the 9th tier.
Match Information
With Crewe Alex’s big Cup tie on Sunday for TV, it’s a great opportunity to get the Saturday football fix down the road. Tickets are on sale for this one online HERE, or can be bought on the gate.
Commentary as always will be on the Cat FM for those who can’t make it.