Photo by Jonathan White
Games in the Northern Premier League don’t get tougher than this Saturday’s (3pm kick-off), as the Dabbers make the long trip to league leaders South Shields.
Be my mirror, my sword and Shields
South Shields are somewhat stuttering towards what for most of the season has looked an inevitable title victory. They have only won 1 of their last 6 games in the league, admittedly that has come from a tough run, games against Radcliffe, FC United and Matlock for example. A shock 3-3 draw with relegation-threatened Stalybridge was less expected; and last weekend, a 2-1 defeat to 10-man Bamber Bridge who closed the gap in second means the nerves might be building. That winning goal came courtesy of a Fin Sinclair-Smith screamer, a feeling that Dabbers fans can certainly empathise with.
Despite all this, there is a scenario where Shields can effectively secure the title on Saturday. A Shields win combined with Warrington Town failing to win and Bamber Bridge losing would leave them 9 points clear with 3 to play and a massive goal difference advantage over Brig. So while it wouldn’t be mathematically done, you can bet the celebrations would be those of champions.
In terms of teams around the Dabbers in the table, on Friday Morpeth are away to Hyde and Marske at home to Marine. Then on Saturday, Stalybridge are away to Guiseley, Liversedge host Radcliffe and Atherton are away to Matlock.
Last Time Out
You have to back to August and two managers ago for the reverse fixture at the Swansway Stadium. A first half goal from Michael Woods was enough for South Shields to claim the 3 points with a 1-0 win. Highlights are below.
Players to Watch
Darius Osei has had an interesting season. He is South Shields’ top scorer despite being on loan at Ashton for a month earlier in the season. Across those two clubs he has 17 goals in all competitions. Dylan Mottley-Henry isn’t that far behind him and scored in their defeat to Bamber Bridge last time out. Shields have a group of 6 that have made 40 or more appearances, a spine of reliable players that have propelled them to the edge of promotion.
Match Information
Tickets for the game at the 1st Cloud Arena are £12 for adults and can be bought online HERE.