The young Imps will once again provide a different test for Russ Wilcox’s men, who have gone toe to toe with Sky Bet League 2 hopefuls, Grimsby Town. Drawing 1-1 last Tuesday. And beating Enterprize National League side Scunthorpe United by a goal to nil, at a rain-soaked Northolme.

Nearing 1,500 spectators have watched those two games – and they will have been impressed with the performances put in by Wilcox’s new look squad. Across the park, the Trinity boss is being challenged by selection headaches, with all players looking to stake a claim for a starting spot, come the curtain raiser, on Saturday 9th August. A decision the boss actually relishes, in the knowledge that he has assembled a squad, full of quality.

“Everyone is looking forward to the next challenge against Lincoln City on Wednesday night. It gives the players more game time building towards August the 9th when we get underway with a home game against Ashton United, who finished in the play-offs last season. Please come and support the lads after our excellent performance and result against Scunthorpe United.”

There is a real feelgood factor surrounding Gainsborough at the moment, and a desire to harness the successes of last season in the cup competitions – and go even better in the league this time around.

As preparations continue positively on the park – spread the word – bring your friends along to the friendlies, encourage them to come along. And see what the Blue Army are all about! Following the Scunthorpe game, the players were back in training on Monday night, a Strength and Conditioning session was put on by Rico Franco at the Gainsborough Boxing Club, a stones throw from the Northolme.

Bare Knuckle Boxing Champion, Rico ‘BonBon’ Franco put the players through their paces, admitting on social media, how proud he was of the group: “Thanks for coming down. A great effort fellas. Some good natural athletes.”

Tommy Cox’s album from the session will be added, here in due course. As the players and management show off their new training kit, manufactured by Surridge Sports. Online Tickets Due to on-going issues with our card machines at the ground, we have made online tickets available for this fixture. These can be purchased through the online portal on the website, or by following this link direct.

Purchasing your tickets online, will ensure you are able to attend the game, and pay for your tickets by card, removing the need for cash at the turnstiles. It doesn’t take a lot to sign up and register, and once you have done, you have a login, that you can use for games throughout the season. This was also the portal that was used to book Away Travel for our Emirates FA Cup adventures last season – so it doesn’t hurt to get signed up early! Prices for the game against the Lincoln City XI & Barnsley FC XI on August 2nd, are set at £10 Adults, £6 Concessions and Under 16s £2.

Following Wednesday night’s game, the Holy Blues play their final away pre-season fixture, away to Brighouse Town. A 1pm kick off, up in Halifax, provides yet another, set of challenges for Russ and his players. Challenges I am sure the group will rise to.

Preview written by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Images by Tommy Cox