By Liam Price, photo by Jonathan White
The Dabbers are back at the Swansway to take on another FA Cup tie against a Greater Manchester-based side, this time Trafford FC (3pm kick-off).
Take the Traff with the smooth
It’s been a strange start to the season for Trafford. The headline is that they’ve lost every league game and are bottom of the NPL West after 4 games. But that arguably doesn’t tell the whole story. All 4 league losses have been by a 2-1 scoreline, so it’s hardly a City of Liverpool situation from last season. Then you look at some of the teams they’ve played; their 3 away trips so far have been to Clitheroe, Runcorn and Stalybridge (in the FA Trophy, a 2-0 loss), 3 of the toughest grounds to go to in the division.
The FA Cup has been the complete opposite in terms of results. They had to start in the Preliminary Round where they beat Barnoldswick Town. They’ve followed that up with wins over Campion AFC and Stockton Town, the latter the most eye catching as they are an NPL Premier side currently in the playoffs, and Trafford came from behind to beat them with a last minute winner too.
Last Time We Met
Our last meeting was at Trafford in January, which the home side won 2-1. Alex Panter scoring his first goal for Nantwich was the main positive for the Dabbers that day. Highlights below.
Players to Watch
Former Dabber Campbell Reid is likely to be part of their frontline and scored earlier in the FA Cup run. They’ve had to try and fill the considerable goalscoring boots of Rio Clegg, who moved to Radcliffe in National League North in the summer.
Familiar names like captain Harry Norris and Jordan Fagbola remain at the back, and their experience will be key to try and get the league form back on track.
Match Information
Tickets for this one are available online HERE or on the gate with cash or card.
Dogs are allowed as long as they are kept on a lead.
Please be careful with parking and avoid parking on the road that leads into the housing estate.