Game 29 Preview: Mickleover (H)

Gainsborough Trinity head into this crucial Pitching In, Northern Premier League clash against Mickleover FC with a spring in their step. Not only are they in excellent form, but the recent announcement of manager Russ Wilcox's new contract has further energised the club. This positive momentum, combined with their impressive FA Cup and FA Trophy runs, means a win against Mickleover could further boost the Blues who are targeting a late run for the play-offs.

Details

The Holy Blues are on a strong run, winning three of their last five matches and demonstrating impressive attacking prowess with a goal difference of 12:7 in those games. Their recent performances suggest they are playing with confidence and purpose. Last time out, Russ Wilcox’s men swept aside beleaguered Blyth, by five goals to one. Mickleover's form is much more inconsistent.

They've only managed one win in their last five outings, and their goal difference of 4:12 indicates struggles at both ends of the pitch. Last time out, they recorded a surprise 1-0 win over play-off chasing Stockton Town, but the game prior saw them lose 6-1 away at Macclesfield, proving their inconsistency. History favours the home side. The Blues have dominated recent encounters between the two teams, Declan Howe scoring an injury time winner, when the sides met at the Don Amott Arena earlier this season.

Gainsborough Trinity, fuelled by their strong form, recent cup successes, the manager's contract extension, and a favourable head-to-head record, are strong favorites to win this match. Mickleover will need to produce a significantly improved performance to overcome the in-form Trinity side. A win for Trinity would not only solidify their strong league position but also contribute to what is shaping up to be a truly memorable season for the club.

In more sombre news, the Trinity family will come together prior to kick off, for a minutes applause. The period of reflection and celebration, for former steward Gary Carter, who sadly passed away earlier this week, aged 61.

Sponsors

Huge thanks are extended to our Matchday Sponsors for this weekend's game. Welcoming Cliff Bradley & Sons, who have committed to the Gold and Silver packages. Our Bronze Match Sponsors dine out in Memory of Grahame Stockdale, while the Match Ball is proudly sponsored by Lyn Bland. It's fantastic to see a full complement of sponsors, and it would be incredible to see a full list of individuals, groups and businesses sponsoring games between now and the end of the season. Anyone interested, please contact our social media pages, or reach out to Geoff Holmes directly on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We look forward to hearing from you!

Programme

Will Lancaster celebrates Trinity's fifth, last time out, with Sisa Tuntulwana, on the front cover of Saturday's Matchday Programme. Meanwhile, inside there is a Big Interview with Fraser Preston. The attacking midfielder paying tribute to staff members and team mates, as he explains some of the reasons behind Trinity's success! Don't forget the valued contributions made by the whole programme team: Andy at Matchday Creative, Heather and Sean, Dale, Jamie and Ross, Steve and Phil, then there's Russ and Dylan giving their insights and Geoff who keeps us up to date on Sponsors and pledges. Let’s make sure to keep him busy, in the final weeks of the season!

Elsewhere

Another full schedule of NPL fixtures promises to have one or two interesting plots and sub-plots that will keep people guessing right up until 5pm!

Ashton United vs Hyde United
Basford United vs Warrington Rylands
Blyth Spartans vs Ilkeston Town
FC United of Manchester vs Hebburn Town
Lancaster City vs Macclesfield
Leek Town vs Guiseley
Matlock Town vs Stockton Town
Morpeth Town vs Bamber Bridge
Prescot Cables vs Whitby Town
Worksop Town vs Workington

Preview by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Photos by Heather King