Ashton United and Prescot Cables have played 22 games each, three more than Trinity at the time of writing. Four sides, including Blyth have played four more games, while seven teams have six games more, including Workington who are just one point better off than the 17th placed Blues. Playing, and winning in the North East has the ability to catapult Trinity four places to 12th, ahead of the weekend’s trip to Basford United. But it’s not just the Spartans that will need to be defeated, the icy blast and persistent rain may also stand in Russ Wilcox’s warriors’ way!

Blyth are still eight points adrift of second bottom, and thirteen from safety, but have been slowly beginning to turn things around in recent weeks, with four draws in the last seven games, scoring ten in those games. A late fightback at home to Whitby just wasn’t enough in a seven goal thriller to rescue a point, but despite their place in the table, they shouldn’t be underestimated.

As the finishing touches to the preview were being written, news from Blyth Spartans has emerged, notifying us of a Pitch Inspection at lunch time. So, please keep a mindful watch across social media, before following the Holy Blues. Blue Army!

Elsewhere

The weather is sure to play havoc with the games in the Pitching In Northern Premier League. Extreme freezing temperatures and high rainfall will mean one eye is needed on the weather and club’s social media accounts. But as it stands, today, these are the fixtures lined up for Tuesday evening. Ilkeston Town vs Stockton Town is off due to Stockton playing their rearranged Trophy tie on Wednesday night.

Ashton United vs Macclesfield
FC United of Manchester vs Warrington Rylands
Mickleover vs Basford United
Prescot Cables vs Bamber Bridge

Preview by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)