Match Preview: Brackley Town vs South Shields

Two of Vanarama National League North's top five go head-to-head on Saturday as South Shields travel to Brackley Town (3pm kick-off).

Both teams go into the match looking to recover from a midweek defeat, with Brackley having been beaten by Rushall Olympic while Shields were edged out at Chorley on Tuesday.

Shields are aiming for their second away win of the season and are second in the table, three places and points better off than their hosts.

Manager's thoughts

Manager Julio Arca was pleased with the Mariners' performance at Chorley, despite falling to a frustrating 2-1 defeat.

He wants his side to replicate those standards when they make the trip to Northamptonshire.

Arca said: "It was a frustrating outcome on Tuesday because with the amount of chances we created and the way we played, we probably did enough to win two or three games.

“Sometimes you don’t get what you deserve in football, and that’s exactly what happened.

“The goalkeeper made some great saves and we had chances we probably rushed, but the standard and the way we played and moved the ball around was excellent.

“It was a pleasure to watch and I’m more than happy with the group. With that level, we can beat anyone.

“We’ve been saying that we’re getting closer to playing the way we want, and the lads showed they’re capable of doing that.

“Brackley will be another hard test for us but we just have to continue on the same track and believing in what we are doing.”

Team news

Shields remain without forward Joao Gomes (knee), with Robert Briggs and Paul Blackett both doubtful with knocks they picked up in Tuesday’s game.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at Brackley’s St James Park – which has a postcode of NN13 7EJ – is at 3pm.

Tickets bought in advance from Brackley’s website are priced at £15 for adults, £10 for over-65s and students, £5 for under-18s, £2 for under-10s and free for under-fives. Order yours by clicking here.

Those bought on matchday from the Brackley ticket office are £17 for adults, £12 for over-65s and students, £7 for under-18s, £4 for under-10s and £2 for under-fives.