With the league table set to be re-adjusted shortly, the Highwaymen could be set to lose six points from their double over Marske. Thus meaning Trinity could leapfrog Saturday's opponents with a victory. Incentive indeed for Russ Wilcox's men! Morpeth have dangers to look out for, Andrew Johnson and Sam Hodgson are two prolific attackers with a great eye for goal. Johnson, 37, is an experienced attacker who can drift out wide and has netted 11 goals this season and got the campaign off to a great start but since had several games where he had been on a goal drought, two in his last three games look to have ended that drought.

Sam Hodgson arrived from Blyth Spartans in the summer and last season scored 7 goals in National League North. He has also been firing for the Highwaymen netting 10 goals this season. Hamish Douglas and Dylan Cogill will want to continue their recent defensive heroics to keep the duo quiet and get a third clean sheet in a row.

Similarly to ourselves, Morpeth have just won two games on the bounce after a very poor spell of form. Trinity will be hoping to be a banana skin for the Highwaymen as they now look to chase down a play-off position. Morpeth have only won three of their 13 away games this season, their most brutal loss came on the road to Worksop where they lost the game 7-0. If Trinity can take advantage of Morpeth’s occasional defensive frailties, then we will have a strong chance of taking all three points.

With Dayle Southwell looking to step up his return from injury, plus the re-emergence of Fraser Preston following his own lengthy lay-off, Russ Wilcox has also been out to strengthen, adding Tavonga Kuleya to his attacking ranks. The winger forward signed for Trinity from Sky Bet League 2 neighbours, Doncaster Rovers. Talking ahead of the game, the nineteen year old expressed his desire to play games and help the team pick up points:

"I am really excited for this opportunity to get some game time at this club. The lads were very welcoming in training earlier in the week and I can’t wait to play on Saturday!"

Tickets

Why not get yourselves along to the Kal Group Stadium and roar the Blues on to a massive three point maximum. We cannot wait to see you with us! Advance tickets are available for this game, allowing you to purchase tickets using your debit or credit card. Cash payments are also accepted on the gate. Prices are £13 adults, £9 Concessions, £5 Under 16s.

We look forward to as many people as possible making the trip to see the team in action at the Kal Group Stadium. If you are looking to buy your ticket in advance, please head over to our online ticketing portal.

Programme

Priced at £2.50 and available on the gate ahead of the game, the Holy Blues' Match Day Programme is a bumper edition this week. Dylan Wharton is our cover star, while inside, Fraser Preston is the Big Interview. Looking at his return from injury, working with the U21s, his relationship with physio Jonathan Whitehorne and his hopes for the remainder of the season. Our Volunteer of the Week sees us meet Harry Bishop, a valuable member of the team behind the scenes, taking care of and nurturing the Northolme playing surface. Plus, there are all our regular features, the View from Carlisle Street, From Under the Bed and all the inside views from within the club. Russ Wilcox's manager notes, Dylan Cogill's thoughts from inside a happier camp, and Dave Horsley from the top. All representing great value as you keep up to date with all things Gainsborough Trinity!

Sponsors

May we extend a warm Gainsborough Trinity welcome to our sponsors today, including those gathering in memory of former Holy Blues' supporter Grahame Stockdale, and our Match Ball Sponsors, Trish and Clare Hardwick. As ever, we are grateful to our long standing, loyal supporters and sponsors who back the Blues through thick and thin. Here's hoping that come 5pm, they'll be celebrating a victory for Russ Wilcox's men, as they go in search of three in three, at the start of 2024.

Elsewhere

There's a break from action for league leaders Radcliffe and promotion chasing Macclesfield as they are both in Isuzu FA Trophy action. The Silkmen at home to Dorking Wanderers and Radcliffe facing the Bees of Barnet who are third in the Vanarama National League. The Saturday full league line-up is as follows:

Atherton Collieries vs Matlock Town
Bradford (Park Avenue) vs FC United of Manchester
Guiseley vs Bamber Bridge
Lancaster City vs Hyde United
Marine vs Stafford Rangers
Warrington Rylands vs Whitby Town
Worksop Town vs Ilkeston Town