Match Preview: Rushall Olympic vs South Shields

South Shields' final game before Christmas sees them travel to Rushall Olympic on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

The Mariners reach the halfway point in their inaugural Vanarama National League North campaign after their visit to Walsall.

Shields are fourth and looking to bounce back from consecutive home defeats. A victory could see them climb to third.

Rushall Olympic are one place and one point above the relegation zone in 20th. The reverse fixture ended in a 2-0 win for the Mariners in September.

Julio's thoughts

Shields manager Julio Arca has stressed the importance of a return to winning ways for his side.

He said: "Saturday is a game that’s important to us, especially after two defeats. 

“We need to bounce back, especially at this time of year when there are so many games coming up and results will start making a real difference to your position. 

“The league is very close at the moment from third place right the way down to 19th, and that makes it even more vital to get points on the board.” 

Arca is respectful of the test Rushall Olympic will provide. 

He added: “As I always say, every team presents different challenges. 

“Rushall Olympic are a team that change their system quite a lot, so it’s difficult to know exactly what they’re going to decide to go with. 

“We have watched their recent games and are aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and we will be fielding a team we believe is strong enough to beat them.” 

Team news

Shields have doubts over Aaron Martin (quad), Mackenzie Heaney (illness) and Paul Blackett (calf) heading into Saturday's game.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at Dales Lane, which has a post code of WS4 1LJ, is at 3pm.

Matchday admission prices are £14 for adults aged 18 to 60, £10 for over-60s, 16-17-year-olds, students with a valid NUS card, those from the emergency services, NHS staff and members of the Armed Forces with a Blue Light Card, £6 for under-16s and £2 for under-12s. 

There is a 50p discount available on each ticket purchased online from Rushall Olympic’s website. Click here to secure a ticket.