Match Preview: South Shields v Boston United

Boston United head north to the first cloud arena as Shields look to build upon their unbeaten start to 2024.

Tuesday night saw the Mariners come out on top against Farsley Celtic as Clayton Donaldson’s side was beaten 2-1 at the First Cloud Arena thanks to a brace from the league’s top scorer, Paul Blackett.

Before Tuesday’s triumph, Shields had an extended break between league fixtures due to various postponed matches. It was 14 days or 2 weeks since they last played and a question of sharpness was brought up.

Fortunately, these questions were quickly dismissed after Tuesday night’s performance and all eyes are now on Saturday’s fixture against Boston United.

Boston sit a point behind Shields in the league table but the hosts have a game in hand. Should the Mariners come out on top again they could climb to 7th place should results go their way.

Tomorrow’s opponents come off of a 0-0 draw with league leaders Tamworth and they have won just one of their last 5 with their last win coming on the 1st of January where they beat Kings Lynn Town.

Elliots Thoughts

In his previous match Paul Blackett netted a brace with a goal in each half, when asked about his importance to the squad Dickman replied “He’s a very important player and he’s done fantastic which is reflected with how many goals he has already contributed this season”.

Later adding “He creates chances out of nothing and there is a good chance he will stand out again on Saturday”.

There also seems to be a new air of confidence amongst the squad, to which he commented “Yes we are confident but we are also realistic, every game is a tough game and we expect no different from Boston”.

Team News

Shields recently announced the acquisition of Dylan Stephenson on loan from Newcastle United. Previously Stephenson played for Hamilton in the Scottish Championship and scored 1 goal in his 9 appearances in the league last year.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at the 1st Cloud Arena (NE32 3UP) is at 15:00 on Saturday January 27th.

Admission prices are £14 for adults, £9 for concessions, £5 for 13–16-year-olds and £3 for 12 and under. – (including online discounts.)