Witton face the first of ten “cup finals” on Saturday afternoon when they travel to Hyde United in a crucial Northern Premier League Premier Division fixture.
The Tigers have a seven point cushion on Witton going into the game but, have played more games than the other teams around them so will be looking to extend the gap at the bottom end of the table.
Witton have three games in hand on their opponents so three points are vital in their bid to climb away from danger as the season draws to its conclusion.
The opportunity to complete the league double over Hyde also gives an added to the incentive to the Albion following their 4-2 victory at the U Lock It Stadium earlier in the season in an eventful encounter.
Goals from Steve McNulty, Callum Saunders and George Nugent in the first half appeared to give Witton a comfortable advantage despite Bradley Roscoe’s reply and when Jawad Jebrin added the fourth in the second half the points were assured.
Tom Pratt’s late consolation gave Albion a few edgy moments but they saw the game out to claim the three points and how things have changed for both clubs since then.
Hyde gained a point in their last league fixture at Lancaster City last weekend and then a young, inexperienced side put up a spirited showing in midweek, as they bowed out of the Cheshire Senior Cup against Crewe Alexandra by the odd goal in three.
Witton have boosted their squad ahead of the game with the addition of midfielder Oliver Putnam on dual registration from Congleton Town and young goalkeeper Dermot Mee from Manchester United, as they face this crucial period without Cesaire Lingouba and goalkeeper Greg Hall due to suspension.
Whilst it’s good to put on decent performances, results at this stage are what’s important and Albion will be fighting and battling as they look to end the season in positive mood in the games ahead and Hyde will have the same aims and ambitions.
Kick off at the Project Solar Stadium is 3pm.
HYDE UNITED FC,
THE PROJECT SOLAR STADIUM,
WALKER LANE,
HYDE,
TAMESIDE,
SK14 5PL.
Directions: Leave the M60 at Junction 24 and take the M67 towards Sheffield. Exit M67 at junction 3, and continue to traffic lights.
At the top of the slip road, turn right towards Hyde Town Centre. At second set of traffic lights turn left onto Mottram Road. Continue past Morrisons Store on the left to 1st set of lights, turn right onto Lumn Road and continue to T- junction. At T - junction, turn left onto Walker Lane. The entrance to the stadium is just past “Hyde Leisure Pool.” (Total Distance - 34.5 miles).
Parking: There is free parking available outside the stadium. Parking is also available at the Leisure Pool - Cost: £2. Please note: A residents only parking scheme is in operation in the vicinity of the stadium. Any street parking MUST be away from the stadium.
Admission is by way of cash payments at the turnstiles unless otherwise stated.
Admission Prices: (Seated) - Adults: £11, Concessions(Over 65’s): £7, Under 16’s: £5. (Standing) - Adults: £10, Concessions(Over 65’s): £6, Under 16’s: £4. Please note: There are no discounts for Students on Matchday Admission prices.
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled supporters will pay the prices above with a free Carer on production of a Carer’s Card.
Matchday Programme: £2.
Social Club: The Social Club is inside the stadium close to the “Shed End.” The “Peter O’Brien Lounge” has capacity for around 100 people with seating for around 80.
Refreshments: The Tea Bar is near to the Social Club.