Match preview – Newcastle Benfield vs Birtley Town: Northern League Division One
Newcastle Benfield make a quick turnaround after Tuesday nights win over Carlisle City with a home clash against Birtley Town.
Birtley make the ten-mile trip to the MKM Stadium on the back of a narrow 2-1 loss to North Shields, the Hoops no doubt will come with a point to prove looking to fight their way up the table after a slow start to their campaign.
Last time out…
Manager Andrew Ferguson and his players made it 19 points out of a possible 24 in an emphatic second-half display against Carlisle City, coming from behind to win 3-1. The performance showcased character and grit to bring the three points back down the A69.
Previous meeting…
The last time The Lions and The Hoops clashed was back in August at The Arrowmark Home Improvements Stadium. It was an exciting affair where Benfield came out 3-2 victors courtesy of a Glen Hargrave brace sealed by Kyle Fryatt on the hour mark.
Where the sides stand…
Birtley sit 18th having picked up 20 points in 21 games. The Hoops come to the MKM Stadium looking to right the wrongs of their Tuesday night defeat to an in-form North Shields side. Birtley will be keen to extend the gap between themselves and the drop zone.
Benfield find themselves 13th hitting the 30-point mark on Tuesday night. With only seven points separating themselves with play-off placed Shildon in fifth, The Lions will be eager to bridge that gap and extend their positive start under Ferguson.
Looking ahead…
Overall, after the football we have seen since the arrival of Ferguson and his coaches, there is a great sense of optimism looking ahead. Benfield go into Friday night on the back of three wins on the bounce, only losing once in the last eight. Goals are sure to come, making Fridays fixture under the lights one to watch for non-league fans across the region.
