Match Preview: Evo Stick South Premier Division South
Basingstoke Town V Swindon Supermarine
When: Saturday 9th March 2019 Kick-off 3.00pm
Where: The Camrose, Western Way, Basingstoke. RG22 6EZ
Following three losses on the road, we finally return back to the Camrose, as we entertain Swindon Supermarine as part of a crucial few games in March.
We played Swindon in the away tie back on the 15th December, and despite taking an early deserved lead, we were pegged back before halftime. The second-half performance was one to forget, as we went behind again and despite an equaliser, the last 30 minutes of the match, we were outpaced, outclassed and in many fans eyes outfought, as we shipped three goals to lose 5-2.
Swindon Supermarine known as the Marine are managed by Lee Spalding, were promoted via the playoffs last season, and despite a poor start, have settled well and currently sit in an impressive 8th place in the league. Their current record sits at Played 33 Won 12 Drawn 9 and Lost 12 with 45pts. Their goal difference sits at Score 59, conceded 50 which is +9, and they sit 11 places above us in the table.
Their last five league games have however resulted in just the one win, 3 draws and a loss. Their last away game was a 1-1 draw at Taunton, and their away record sits at W 5 D 5 L 6, so they accomplish something that we can’t, and this to pick up points via draws on the road.
Their leading goal-scorer is still forward Conor McDonagh who has an impressive 22 league goals. He is well supported by journeyman Stuart Fleetwood with 10 goals. Midfielders Ryan Campbell and Matthew Liddiard have added 5 and 4 goals respectively.
Basingstoke return to the Camrose, knowing that their home form is likely the thing that will keep us up and starting this Saturday is vital.
With this ridiculous tight league, we have slipped from 13th back to 19th and now need to fight every game for 90 minutes.
Our record stands at Played 33 Won 11 Drawn 5 and Lost 17 with 38pts. Our home record stands at W 7 D 2 L 7 and the seven losses is key here, as the fortress Camrose, has disappeared this season.
With five home games left, we need to get it back.
What this weeks line-up Manager Martin Kuhl will go with will be interesting to say the least.
Defensively, the centre back pairing need to shut down McDonagh & Fleetwood.
In midfield, I would love to see Harry Pearse back alongside Sam Deadfield, but unless he is fully fit, I would rather leave him on the bench and use him if needed.
It’s key that players like Smart are allowed to run riot on the Camrose pitch, whilst Atkinson, Kennedy and possibly Collier do the engine work and win the midfield battle.
Up front it’s time we take some of our chances so hope Sam Argent (12 goals) & Ben Wright are on the top of their game. A goal from Deadfield (7) and Smart (6) would also help.
Does Martin Kuhl give a start for Akers, or at least longer from the subs bench. Is James Granger still at the club, is Kian Duncan available. Will Adam Everiss get a start?
So many questions, so many options!
Whatever the line-up we simply need a win and 3pts to help us in our fight for safety.
Odds please Ian, when you get a chance.
Match Preview by Martin French..
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