NPL Match Preview: FC United vs South Shields

South Shields travel to FC United of Manchester on Tuesday as Kevin Phillips’ side return to league action (7.45pm kick-off).

The Mariners head into the game in confident mood after an impressive 5-2 victory over Marske United in the Emirates FA Cup stretched their unbeaten start to the season to 12 matches in all competitions.

Another win on Tuesday would take them back to the top of the Pitching In Northern Premier League table after they were leapfrogged by three teams while they faced Marske in the cup.

However, they are expecting a difficult encounter with FC United, who have won three and drawn one of their last four league games and would overtake Shields with a victory.

Neil Reynolds’ side are two points behind the Mariners in eighth, and the Reds provided Shields with one of their toughest tests of last season in April, pushing the promotion chasers all the way before succumbing to a 1-0 defeat following a late goal.

Manager’s views

Shields manager Kevin Phillips says there is great confidence in the camp following Saturday’s thumping win.

He said: “As soon as the final whistle went on Saturday, our focus went onto Tuesday night.

“I know it was the FA Cup, but I think what we did on Saturday against a team in our league sent a big message out to everyone and we take that confidence to FC.

“It will be a tough, tough match, as it was there last season, but we’re lucky that we didn’t pick up any injuries on Saturday.

“The lads that came in and played on Saturday showed they’re ready, and now we have to pick a team that we believe will go and win the match.

“I’ve said many times that this is the kind of headache I like.”

Team news

Shields expect to have a near full-strength squad to select from, although JJ Hooper remains out and Josh Doherty is a doubt.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at Broadhurst Park – which has a post code of M40 0FJ – is at 7.45pm and admission prices are £12 for adults, £7 for over-60s, those in receipt of Income Support or Universal Credit and students, £3 for under-18s and free for under-5s with a paying adult.

FC United are providing a live stream of the game which can be purchased at a price of £5 by clicking here.

The turnstiles at Broadhurst Park will open at 6pm, and both cash and card payments can be taken.

Live updates will also be posted on the club’s Twitter page.