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PREVIEW | Athersley Recreation (A)


Matt Chatfield's side look to end a poor run of form when they visit bottom-of-the-league Athersley Recreation.


AFC have failed to win in any of their last three league outings, a short stint of form which saw them drop down to 16th in the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division table after a promising start.


With victory the Bulls could launch themselves back into the top half of the division, whilst defeat could see them drop as low as second from bottom.

 

Last Time Out


The Bulls were hammered at the Birkdale Stadium last weekend by a Bottesford Town side who had, in fact, given Athersley their first points of the season only a week before.


Despite a strong opening few minutes, Chatfield's side went behind in similar fashion to the previous weekend's defeat to Liversedge, as Hugo Warhurst's error allowed Jack McMenemy to put the hosts ahead.


AFC then fell apart in the second half and a quickfire double from Jacob Fenton along with further goals from Dayle Hutson and Daniel Boulton rounded off a miserable afternoon.

 

The Opposition


Lowly Athersley are yet to earn a single point at home this season, as their dire current form has left them at rock bottom of the NCEL Premier Division with just three points to show for.


With an incredible goal difference of -39, Athersley have already shipped 45 goals in just eight league matches, scoring only six times.


Of many comprehensive defeats, their biggest so far was 8-0 at home to Eccleshill United, one of eight teams to have put five or more past the Penguins this season.

 

Team News


Goalkeeper Hugo Warhurst and defender Jack Hague will miss the trip up to Barnsley, whilst midfielder Nicky Darker returns to selection.


Set to make his debut is new signing Dylan Parkin, who will hope to impress Matt Chatfield between the sticks.

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