The Robins resume their Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup campaign when they host Division Two promotion chasers Ryton & Crawcrook Albion.
Last Wednesday, Shields were tested heavily by Division Two leaders West Allotment Celtic in the Northumberland Senior Cup Quarter Final.
Thankfully, two well-taken goals from Kyle Patton guided the Robins to a 2-1 win; booking their place in the Semi-Finals in the process.
Following that win, the Robins continued their excellent run of form in the league, beating Division One strugglers Seaham Red Star at the Ferguson Motor Repairs Stadium; with the goals again coming from Patton.
But they will be met by stiff opposition Wednesday evening, with Tony Fawcett’s men having previously beaten Ashington and Stockton Town so far this campaign.
Tomorrow’s opposition have responded well to their 5-2 defeat at the hands of Crook Town, beating Bedlington Terriers 5-0; with four of the goals coming in the first half.
They are also boosted by the form of striker Scott Jasper, a man Marc Nash and Anthony Woodhouse know all too well from their time managing Whitley Bay.
Initially joining RACA on loan two seasons ago, Jasper made the move to Kingsley Park a permanent one at the start of last season and has gone on to top the clubs’ goalscoring charts every year since.
This season, the Ryton front man has scored a total of 17 goals across all competitions and since being made captain at the start of the season, he has helped lead the young side to near the summit of the league.
Speaking ahead of the game, Nash was eager to ensure that tomorrow’s guests were not to be taken lightly.
“We have negotiated the group stage with three wins and a draw, with our opponents finishing second in their group. This included a tremendous result when they defeated Stockton,” said Nash.
“Manager Tony Fawcett has got his side right in the promotion mix this year and they look well placed to secure a top four place on offer.”
“Losing former youngster Jack Cooper to Benfield is a blow but they have responded well and produced an excellent 5-0 win against Bedlington on Saturday.”
Nash was also eager to heap praise on midfielder Gary Ormston, who had made his 200th appearance for the club against Seaham.
“Having all of those appearances in his thirties it is testament to his attitude, fitness and love of the game; to be still churning out consistency week after week,” exclaimed Nash.
“Sadly, it looks like a dying breed of player that can keep high standards for many years and play for pure enjoyment well into their thirties. We are fortunate to have a couple more in Bucks and Robbo.”
“Hopefully their brilliant examples can rub off on our younger lads.”
