Match Preview – Wednesday 13th August, 2014
CROOK TOWN versus NEWTON AYCLIFFE
Millfield Ground. 7.30pm kick off
Newton Aycliffe will look to quickly exorcise their 4-0 reverse to West Auckland in Saturday’s opening game by defending their unbeaten record against near-neighbours Crook Town this evening.
While Aycliffe crashed heavily against Vase finalists West Auckland at the weekend, Crook creditably drew 1-1 when they travelled to promoted North Shields.
In eight previous encounters against the Ambers, the Newtonians have won five and drawn three, which includes both entertaining 3-3 draws between the pair as last season drew to a close.
Both sides underwent managerial change during the summer, as well as a high turnover in playing personnel. Adrian Webster replaced former Crook boss Allan Oliver in the Aycliffe dugout, while Paul Bennett took over from the outgoing Gary Pearson at the Millfield.
Webster was missing several first team players on Saturday, but can welcome back Stuart Owen (wedding) and Tom Atkinson (knee), while youngster Greg Upton is available.
Goalkeeping duo Andrew Spence and Ryan Farley, and defender Liam Clough (all holiday) are expected to travel with the squad, as is new signing, the retuning Scott Oldfield.
Webster will be without Martin Young however, as the midfielder is unavailable, and continues to have fitness doubts over centre back pairing Dan Mitton and Richard Langthorne.
Tale of the tape
Key Man: Craig Mickle
One to Watch: Tony Stephenson
Familiar Face: Chris Renshaw
Form Guide: Crook D Newton Aycliffe L
Last Season: Crook 3-3 Newton Aycliffe