Farsley Celtic will look to continue their sublime start to 2017 as they face a crucial match away at title rivals Lancaster City, who currently sit top of the Evo-Stik Division 1 North, writes Thomas Ritchie.
When the two sides met earlier in the season, Lancaster left Throstle Nest with the points in a thrilling 4-2 victory, with Farsley unfortunate to lose.
With the game at 2-2 late on Nathan Turner almost gave Farsley the victory, before Lancaster countered and Jordan Connerton gave them the lead.
Richard Marshall struck the post in injury team as he almost rescued a point for The Celts, before Lancaster countered again and Connerton made it 4-2, which was cruel on Farsley who deserved something out of the game.
Full of confidence
However, Farsley will head into this match full of confidence as they look to seek revenge and continue their promotion push.
Farsley have gone seven games unbeaten since the turn of the year, scoring 26 goals in the process. This run includes impressive victories over Tadcaster (5-1) and Brighouse (3-2) in the league, whilst also defeating Guiseley in the West Riding County Cup quarter-finals 4-2.
This run has left The Celts six points behind their opponents with three games in hand, meaning we are set up for a blockbuster clash. Farsley will welcome back Ryan Watson from suspension, whilst new signing Chris Atkinson is in line to make his league debut. Nathan Turner and Adam Clayton will also be pushing to return from injury.
Lancaster top
Lancaster are currently sitting pretty at the top of the league, four points clear of second placed Ossett Town.
Lancaster have lost just one of their last six since the turn of the year, however have dropped points to teams in around the playoffs with a 1-0 defeat to Trafford and a 0-0 draw with Clitheroe in their most recent game on Tuesday. Lancaster could welcome back club captain Ricky Mercer following a calf injury, whilst Tom Kilifin is unavailable due to work commitments.
Speaking to the Lancaster Guardian, City’s manager Phil Brown said:
“I know it’s an old cliché but I’m just looking at each game. Yes it’s another game against a side competing for promotion but while we’ve got to play all these sides, looking at the fixtures, they’ve got to play each other too.”
Match details
The game kicks off at 3pm at the Giant Axe, postcode LA1 5PE.
Admission prices are £8 adults, £6 concessions, £4 students, £2 Juniors (10-16) and free for under 10s.
If you can’t make the game you can follow it on Twitter with @FarsleyCelticFC.