We provide a warm welcome to all those connected to Shildon FC for today’s game at the Eco Power Stadium. Like us, they come into this game in great form and challenging at the right end of the table. Last week, they beat our South Yorkshire counterparts, Sheffield FC 5-1, so we now we need to be at our best to come out on top.
On Tuesday, I was impressed with the performance of the players – the quality, intensity and movement of the team was first class and we created numerous chances that could have easily pushed the score line into double figures. What impressed me the most was the attitude and professionalism of the players – doing the right things for the full 90. We know the opposition were from the County Senior Premier Division, but we ensured throughout that we played at our tempo and moved the ball with pace and purpose.
We had 5 players missing on Tuesday due to holidays and illness, so it was pleasing to provide debuts for young Taylor Mansell and Mason Rhiney who have both featured for the Reserves this season. Likewise, it was great to see the return of Josh Nodder and Joe Lumsden from longer term injuries and mark their returns with goals and excellent performances. We do have 4 of the 5 players returning today so we will have a competitive squad to choose from. Knowing that we have a game on Monday away at Brighouse Town, we will need all of the squad to play a part to ensure that we are successful in both games.
As previously mentioned in my programme notes on Tuesday, thank you for the warm positive welcome Andy, Pete and I have received since joining, it is great to see smiles on faces and a positive atmosphere in the stands and clubhouse. We hope we can work together as a club to continue to build on this and have a successful season on and off the pitch.
Enjoy the game,
Ian
