Match Preview

by Taran Dhamrait

Glossop travel to Clitheroe looking to make it four games unbeaten after a two-week break from league action

Last weekend's home fixture against Newcastle Town was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch meaning our last league game was a 0-0 draw against Prescot Cables at Surrey Street on the 9th March.

The players made the short trip to Ashton as they faced Curzon Ashton last Tuesday in a friendly. Curzon won 1-0 however Glossop could take plenty of positives away from the game along with some good football.

The Hillmen are currently in good form, unbeaten in three, they have moved above Clitheroe in the league table to 17th, on 25 points. Clitheroe sit 18th on 23 points however they have played an additional game.

Before the draw against Prescot, Glossop had beaten Skelmersdale United 3-0 at Volair Park and drew 1-1 away against Droylsden. Glossop will be aiming to keep this improved run going and leave Clitheroe with some points.

Clitheroe are currently on a four-game losing streak, having conceded 11 goals in those four games. Defeats came against Runcorn, Droylsden, Chasetown and most recently Ramsbottom United where Clitheroe lost 2-1. That game was also two weeks ago so both sides have had a break from league action.

Clitheroe have a scored seven more goals than Glossop, with 40 but have shipped 13 more, conceding 73 goals this season. Their away record is better than their home one, they have won four games away from home whilst winning two games at Shawbridge this season. A very similar record to Glossop.

Over the last six matches, Clitheroe currently sit 18th in the form table having gained just three points. Glossop sit 11th with eight points from a possible 18. Clitheroe are also the only side in the division to not have picked up any points over their last four games. However, every game is a challenge and Glossop will need to give another solid performance.

On Saturday's game, joint manager Pete Band told GNEtv that their are some tough choices to make: "After we saw a lot of the lads in action in the friendly, on Saturday it has given Lloyd and myself a few selection headaches. Which is always a good thing, the lads are fighting for their places now and know they have to perform to stay in the squad."

We would love as many of you as possible to come and support the players in Clitheroe. Detailed directions can be found here - http://www.clitheroefc.co.uk/a/travel-directions-23788.html

Whilst the postcode for Shawbridge is - BB7 1LZ.