New Spartans manager Michael Connor will take his team down to Macclesfield tomorrow, as he attempts to bag his first win as Spartans manager against Robbie Savage’s high flyers.
Currently top of the league and 10 points above 2nd place Guiseley, it’s safe to say this will likely end up being Macclesfield’s year. Still unbeaten in the league and having progressed to the third round proper of the FA Trophy, things are certainly going to plan for Macc at the moment.
A lot of their success could well be attributed to the goals of former Gateshead and Scunthorpe striker Danny Elliot, who’s notched 10 goals in 16 games in the league alone this season – plus another 5 goals across both the FA Cup and Trophy. Having dropped down from the National League North in the summer, it’s safe to say Danny has adapted to life at Macc rather well, and will be a huge threat tomorrow.
Another summer signing who appears to have adapted well to life with the Silkmen is former Chorley man Justin Johnson, who arrived early in the summer. A tricky inside forward who’s already scored 7 goals in all competitions and registered a few assists, he’s capable of giving most full back’s in the National League a very difficult afternoon.
Central midfielder Paul Dawson is another player having a very good campaign so far, having scored 8 goals in all competitions so far. The 25-year old is a bit of all rounder in the heart of the Silkmen’s midfield, and he will no doubt give the Spartans midfield some running to do tomorrow.
Accompanying him in midfield will likely be former New York Red Bull’s midfielder, John Rooney. Brother of Wayne, the 33-year old attacking midfielder has notched 6 goals for Macclesfield already this season. The vastly experienced midfielder will no doubt be looking to poach holes in the Spartans defence tomorrow and add to that tally.
New central midfielder Shay Richardson could well be in line for a debut this Saturday, having recently made the switch from Heaton Stannington. Winger/Striker Cyril Giraud may also be thrown straight into the team, having just joined from old rivals Bishop Auckland.
Full back’s Joe Oliver and Joel Holvey may be in contention to return after missing last week’s home game against Matlock Town, while defender/midfielder Connor Pani may make feature for the first time in 2 months – following the injury he picked up at Mickleover.
With a whole host of new signings now in the team, Mick will have a bit of selection headache on a his hands, as it looks to secure a rare away win Spartans, who’ve only picked up one victory on the road within the last 250 days.
The supporters bus will be leaving from The Wallaw at 8:30am, with a pick up at High Pit for 8:40am and Seaton Delaval for 8:45am.
We’ll be stopping off in the town centre for a few hours, likely at the Nags Head just opposite the train station. The bus will then depart the town centre at 2:30pm for the ground, which is a short drive away.
If you’re making your own way down in the car, we’d recommend leaving rather early, as you’ll likely encounter the usual traffic issues at the Tyne Tunnel, followed by plenty of issues on the M62 – which should be hit by a fair bit of snow over night.
On the subject of snow, this is Macclesfield’s pitch at present however – it should be noted this will likely be cleared tonight. The pitch will be cleared once again in the morning as they’re expecting snow overnight, however Macclesfield are still confident the game will go ahead.
It’s strongly recommended that you purchase your tickets for tomorrow’s game online, which you can do here.
You won’t be able to pay with card or cash on the gate for the away end unfortunately. You’ll be required to go round to the main ‘box office’ to purchase tickets, similar to Scunthorpe last season.
Adult – £17
Concession – £13
Student – £10
Under 18 – £7
Under 12 – £3
We will of course be segregated in the North West Corner of the ground (the Silkmen Terrace). It should be noted that this is end of the stadium is not terraced, so shorts may not be a wise move tomorrow.
Hot and cold food is served in the away end, though we’ve no word on alcohol just yet. You can also pick up a matchday programme, priced at £3.
For those planning on making their way down to the ground early, away fans will be welcome in the ‘Bar Twenty Seven’ at the ground, which is essentially Mac’s social club.
For a change the bookies are offering odds in advance for this one, however they aren’t exactly showing us much respect ahead of tomorrow.
The pick of the bunch being Betway, who seem to think it’s more likely that Macclesfield will run out 6-0 winners tomorrow, than it is for Spartans to pick up a win!
Wishing everyone a safe journey down there tomorrow! Here’s hoping we can return home with the points.