By Andrew McDonnell (@AndrewSJourno)
Northern League Division One
Venue: Bishopton Road West, Stockton-on-Tees, Stokesley, North Yorks, TS19 0QD
Date: Wednesdayday, August 9, 2017
Kick-Off: 7:45pm
Updates: @MorpethTownAFC
Morpeth Town will be looking to put Saturday’s result behind them as they open their Northern League campaign against Stockton Town tonight.
The Highwaymen began the new season with a 2-0 loss to Shildon in the Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round last weekend.
However, Nick Gray and Dave Malone will be keen on getting a reaction from the side to get off to the best possible start in the league.
Morpeth finished second in Division One last season, and have made several additions this summer to try build on from that finish.
Team News
There are three players missing for the first league game; Liam Henderson remains on the sideline through injury.
Captain Keith Graydon is unavailable due to suspension, while midfielder Ben Sayer is also missing.
The Manager’s Views
Co-Manager Dave Malone said: “I’m feeling good, I can’t wait for the season to start after a good pre-season.
“We know it’s going to be a tough game tonight, but we’re hoping for a good start to our league campaign.
“Saturday was difficult to take because we’ve been playing so well, but credit to Sheldon, who played really well and stopped us playing.
“But tonight it’s important we start sharp and stamp our tempo on the game.”
The Opposition
Michael Dunwell’s side took Division Two by surprise last season, winning the league title in their first season in the Northern League.
The amassed 93 points and scored 111 goals in the process. They managed to pip Team Northumbria and Billingham Synthonia last season, and will be looking to impress in Division One this term.
They kicked off their season on Saturday with a 4-2 defeat to Guisborough Town in their first Emirates FA Cup match in history.
The Anchors managed to get ahead early from the penalty spot, and were 2-2 at one point, but Guisborough managed to get the better in the final half-hour.
Admission Charges
Admission for the game with Stockton is; £6 for Adults, £4 for Concessions and Children are £1 or Free if they’re accompanied by an adult.
Overall Record
The sides have never met in a competitive fixture before, and with big things happening off the field at both clubs, it promises to be a great contest in the first game of the new Northern League season.
