Following on from two Robins’ win in a row, it’s time to look ahead to our next fixture in the EBAC Northern League Division One. It’s an away trip to West Auckland Town, and it’s sure to be a corker.
The opponents for Saturday currently sit fifth in the league table, sneaking into the playoff spots. Their record is very similar to ours, even down to the same number of defeats across the entire season. They’ve won their last three games, and the Black and Ambers haven’t lost in the league since the end of February.
The player to watch for the home team this Saturday is Cobi Jones. He has scored four goals in his last three games, including a brace last week away to Birtley Town. West Auckland Town aren’t shy in front of goal, as they’ve converted 11 in their last three, notably five goals in a nine-goal thriller with Newcastle Blue Star.
The last face-off between the two teams was unpleasant for Brian Smith’s Robins, to say the least. Shields were beaten at the Daren Persson Stadium by a whopping five goals to nil, back at the end of October. I’m sure the players will be reminded of this before they go to the Arrowmark Home Improvements Stadium for revenge.
Shields are off the back of two very important wins in the last week. Coming out on top 2-0 to Kendal Town and Redcar Town (Brooks Mileson League Cup). The Robins’ attack has been working as a well-oiled machine after being told by boss Brian Smith to be more direct. Jordan Lashley is having a lot of joy in front of the goal, while the slow introduction of Ryan Carr to match fitness seems to be nearly at its end. You could say Shields are now stacked in attack. Nelson Ogbewe is still out; however, North Shields have more options in attack now than they have had most of the season.
If you’re planning to make it to the game, we appreciate all of your support coming in towards the end of the season, and we hope to see you there!
MATCH DETAILS
West Auckland Town FC vs North Shields FC
Date – Saturday 21st March
Kick Off – 3pm
Venue – Arrowmark Home Improvements Stadium, Darlington Road, West Auckland, DL14 9HU
Concessions – £7/£5/£2 (Card payments accepted)
