News

The Moatmen, currently sitting 17th and fourth from bottom, enter the match on the back of six straight defeats, with Deeping Rangers just a point behind and holding a game in hand. Manager James Jepson's side are battling to avoid back-to-back relegations, with all teams below them having games in hand and just one win in his first ten games since taking charge in November.

In team news, goalkeeper Kara Ceesay is doubtful with a groin injury, while Kane Lee has ruled himself out for the season with an ongoing knee problem. Osiris McDonald's season is also over due to ankle ligament damage sustained while playing for the reserves. Dylan Hunniford returns from suspension but is rated 50/50 due to illness this week.

Jepson has been active in strengthening his squad, bringing in goalkeeper Harvey Woodward on dual registration from Basford and midfielder Cyprian Mtenga from Burton Albion on a work experience loan. The club is also awaiting league confirmation of another loan signing. Additionally, "highly rated" defender Favour Osaghae has joined from Radford, with Jepson commenting, "Osaghae is a defender who I worked with at Basford and has worked really hard for Radford and I have very high hopes for him with us, he is very fit, quick, strong and listens”

Will Scothern, who signed earlier this month from Eastwood but missed the last match through illness, is in line for his debut.

The club has also confirmed the departures of Alex Graham, Jenson Cooper, and Isaac Shaw, while Liam Kavanagh misses out due to a knee injury.

On his ongoing recruitment drive, Jepson explained, "We've been light, especially in midfield, for the whole time I've been here due to injuries, suspensions and poor performances. The lads I've brought in will definitely improve us and bring that added bit to help us turn this situation around." Looking ahead to the match, the manager remained resolute, stating, "I'm looking forward to the challenge, back straight, chest out, and us all doing our bit for the club."