Ebbsfleet United v Forest Green Rovers

Ebbsfleet look to extend their unbeaten home record to six games on Saturday as play-off hopefuls Forest Green Rovers visit Stonebridge Road.

This is not the only thing the Fleet will be looking to extend to six either. On home soil, the Fleet are unbeaten this season against all of the top five clubs in the Blue Square Premier, the strugglers will be looking to make it unbeaten at home against all top six clubs. Grimsby, Newport, Wrexham and Kidderminster have all come to Stonebridge Road and played out to one all draws, while Mansfield came and lost 3-1, after going a goal up.

Forest Green Rovers FC
 Founded - 1890 (as Nailsworth and Forest Green)
Nicknames - Rovers, FGR.
Ground - The New Lawn
Manager - Dave Hockaday
Captain - Jared Hodgkiss
Top scorer - James Norwood (14)

　


Forest Green have never been out of Non-League. In the early years, the Club were founder members of the Mid Gloucestershire League and the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League. In 1968, the Club were founder members of the Gloucestershire County League. They ended their spell in this league in 1975, when they were promoted to the Hellenic League. Their manager at the time was former Arsenal player Peter Goring. Goring made over 200 appearances for Arsenal in a spell spanning eleven years. 1981 saw Rovers win the FA Vase final at Wembley, beating Rainworth Minors Welfare in the final, and the Club also won the Hellenic League. A name change occured in 1989 as the Club switched to Stroud FC in an attempt to 'revitalise' the Club. The Club become more unstable financially and changed back to Forest Green Rovers in 1992 when the Club were taken over by Trevor Horsley. Back-to-back promotions in the late 90's brought Rovers to where they are now, the Conference Premier. Rich chairman Dale Vince will be hoping he can take Forest Green to the next level.

Rovers fans will be fairly disappointed with their season so far. With the money, and squad that they have, they really should be challenging for the title. As it stands, Rovers are outside of the play-offs by four points. Victory in this match will install added belief into the players and fans, especially if Grimsby continue their recent bad run of form that they are on! It's been a disappointing season on the Cup front for Rovers, crashing out of the FA Trophy in the second round to Gainsborough Trinity. They made it into the first round proper of the FA Cup after beating Dartford away 1-4 in a replay. Rovers come up against League Two promotion contenders Port Vale at the New Lawn. Unfortunately, a winner ten minutes from time game Vale a 2-3 victory.

The Fleet have been unlucky lately, as their last two matches have fell victim to the weather. First of all, Barrow away was postponed Saturday morning and then Luton was called off over twenty four hours before kick-off. Both matches have been rescheduled - Barrow for Wednesday 3 April with a 7:45pm kick-off, and Luton is two days before season end; Thursday 18 April, 7:45pm kick-off. Of course, the postonements mean that the last time the Fleet were in action was when they managed to grab an impressive draw at Cambridge United. On-loan striker Matt Godden put the visitors ahead, but man of the match Harrison Dunk rescued a point for the hosts ten minutes from time.

Rovers have had an even longer spell without a game. You'll have to go back to Friday 15 March when Forest Green last played; a 1-2 defeat to title contenders Mansfield Town. An Eddie Oshodi own goal and a Lee Stevenson goal put the Stags two up before top scorer James Norwood gave the hosts a fighting chance with a goal three minutes from time. The Stags held out for the victory.


INVOLVED WITH BOTH:

 When you mention the name Magno Vieira to Ebbsfleet fans, they'll automatically think goals. The striker spent a season in Kent in 2009/10 and came so close to helping the Fleet escape relegation. The Brazilian scored sixteen goals in fourty one appearances for the Fleet and it wasn't just his goals that the fans loved, but his overall play. His work rate was excellent. The striker has already said his season with the Fleet was one of the best he has experienced in Football. The striker spent two seasons at Fleetwood Town before moving to Rovers last summer. Although he's not got many goals for Rovers, the fans believe there is more to come from Magno and they too believe his work rate is good. Another player who has played for both is current Fleet striker Liam Enver-Marum, who spent a brief spell at Rovers before joining the Fleet. Former Fleet midfielder Liam Coleman also had a short loan spell at Rovers before he joined the Fleet in 2006.


KEY PLAYERS:

 The Fleet look to Matt Godden to fire them to victory. The youngster, on loan from Scunthorpe, has been in fine form since returning to the Fleet on loan and will look to continue his goalscoring that has made him a fan favourite in just eight games. Centre-back and captain Paul Lorraine will need to be on form if the Fleet are to get anything. The Forest Green attack will be looking to bombard the Fleet goal and Lorro, and the other defenders will need to be at their best to stop them.

Rovers look to winger James Norwood as one of their better players. The youngster has hit fourteen goals this season and has not long signed a new deal with the Club. If Rovers are to push for promotion they will be hoping Norwood stays fit as he's a massive part of the side. Rovers will also look to on-loan striker Wes Burns. Although he's only played a part in two games since signing from Bristol City, he scored the winning goal away at Southport in the last minute of the match and looked impressive on his home debut against Mansfield. He will be keen to help Forest Green as they look to sneak into the play-offs as well as impressing his parent club, who look to be heading down to League One next season.


TEAM NEWS:

Long-term absentee Moses Ashikodi is edging closer to full fitness. The striker has been back in training for a while now and will be hoping he can break into the squad and help the team in their fight for survival. On-loan defender Jack Saville will be in contention soon, and right back Craig Stone is still out with an ankle injury.

Forest Green's injury list is about as long as Arsenal's run without a trophy. Fan favourite Reece Styche was ruled out for ten months with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage while creative midfielder Stephen Brogan is out for the season too. Defender Jamie Turley has been out of action, but is hoping to return soon. Rovers would have missed him as he's been named the England C player of the year and has been a key player in their season. Forward Omar Koroma has been out long-term after signing in the summer and midfielder Jamie Collins has been missing for large parts of the season. Ben Wright has been out of action for a while, and has been loaned out to former Club Braintree to gain some match fitness. Defenders Arran Racine and Dale Bennett have been injured short-term and could be in contention to return to the squad soon. Former 'Fleet striker Magno Vieira has also been missing from the Rovers' squad lately with an injury. One player who will be in the squad for the trip to Stonebridge Road is Reece Connolly. The striker has signed on loan from Blue Square Bet South side Farnborough. The former Aldershot player has hit 32 goals in 61 games for Farnborough and will be looking to make an impact as soon as he can.


EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DWLDLL):

Cambridge United 1-1 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 4-1 Southport
Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County
Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United
Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United


FOREST GREEN'S LAST SIX MATCHES (LWDLDL):

Forest Green Rovers 1-2 Mansfield Town
Southport 1-2 Forest Green Rovers
Forest Green Rovers 1-1 Barrow
Forest Green Rovers 0-1 Grimsby Town
Cambridge United 0-0 Forest Green Rovers
Woking 2-0 Forest Green Rovers


PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

The Fleet and Forest Green have met numerous times in the last eleven years, with the Fleet edging the head-to-head with six wins to FGR's five. Eight encounters have ended in a draw.

04.09.12. Forest Green Rovers 4-1 Ebbsfleet United
06.04.12. Forest Green Rovers 3-1 Ebbsfleet United
27.08.11. Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Forest Green Rovers
23.01.10. Ebbsfleet United 4-3 Forest Green Rovers
12.09.09. Forest Green Rovers 0-0 Ebbsfleet United


MEMORY MATCH:

Saturday 23rd January, 2010. Ebbsfleet United 4-3 Forest Green Rovers.

The Fleet came back from behind three times before Leon Crooks rose up at the death to give the Fleet three vital points in their battle against relegation. On-loan striker Daniel Powell twice gave Rovers the lead, before Isaiah Rankin put them 2-3 up from the spot. Magno Vieira twice levelled for the Fleet and a Stefan Bailey goal eleven minutes from time looked to give the Fleet a share of the spoils until the last minute of the match. A Scott Ginty cross was met by the grateful head of Leon Crooks, and his first league goal since August gave the Fleet all three points.

Attendance: 790.


LAST TIME OUT:

Tuesday 9th September, 2012. Forest Green Rovers 4-1 Ebbsfleet United.

Forest Green went top of the league as they destroyed strugglers Ebbsfleet. Phil Walsh gave the visitors a surprise lead in the twelth minute with a rocket from outside of the box, but this only brought the hosts to life. Four goals within the next twenty five minutes gave the hosts three points. Yan Klukowski, Matty Taylor, Ben Wright and Eddie Oshodi with the goals.

Attendance: 914.


HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

William Hill have the Fleet to win at 7/4 with Rovers at 11/10 favourites. A draw for this match sees ods of 5/2. If you fancy Rovers to grab another 4-1 victory then the odds for that are 33/1.

Bet Victor have the Fleet to win at 27/10 with Rovers coming in at 21/20. Bet Victor also have odds for a draw at 5/2. If you fancy Nathan Elder to grab the first goal then you can get odds of 5/1.

Blue Square have the Fleet to win at 11/5 with Rovers coming in at Evens. A draw for this match sees odds of 5/2. If you fancy Rovers to score in both halves then you can get odds of 21/10.

Luton Town v Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United will look to record a vital win at Luton in their fight for survival... If the weather doesn't intervene.

The Fleet face a short trip to Luton on Tuesday as they look to produce a result that will give them every chance of survival. A victory will see the Fleet edge a little closer to safety, wheras a Luton win would mean nothing to the Hatters as their play-off hopes are all but over.


Luton Town FC
 Founded - 1885 (after a merger between Luton Town Wanderers and Excelsior)
Nickname - The Hatters
Ground - Kenilworth Road
Manager - John Still
Captain - Ronnie Henry
Top scorer - Andre Gray (11)


Luton are managed by Dagenham and Redbridge legend John Still. Still spent nine long years with the Essex outfit and not only did he guide them into League Two for the first time in their history, he went one better in 2009/10 and took them to League One. Having only been at Luton for a short period of time, he hasn't been able to make much of an impact. Former manager Paul Buckle left the Hatters languishing in 10th postion in the table before leaving for 'personal reasons'. Despite their poor run in the League, Luton flew the Non-League flag in the FA Cup, making it to the fifth round. The Hatters beat Championship strugglers Wolves at Kenilworth Road in round three, before travelling to Premiership side Norwich and producing the shock of the tournament in a 0-1 victory, courtesy of substitute Scott Rendell. Another winnable game was handed to Luton in round five when they were drawn at home to Millwall, although this proved a step too far for the Hatters as the Lions ran out 0-3 winners. The Hatters fell in the fourth round of the FA Trophy as they crashed 3-0 at finalists Grimsby Town. Since Still has taken over at Town, the defence has improved vastly. The Hatters have kept an impressive five clean sheets in the eight games they have played under Still. One cause for concern is the lack of goals. Town have scored just four goals in those eight matches. Luton have drawn 0-0 five times this season. Against the worst defence in the league, they'll see this as an ideal chance to get some goals.

Luton's last match was certainly a frustrating affair. The Hatters created numerous chances but were unable to find the net. They had a total of seventeen shots with nine on target, compared to the visitors seven and four. The Tamworth keeper was in fine form as the game ended 0-0.

The Fleet's match at Barrow on Saturday was postponed due to heavy snowfall overnight. A new date for this fixture has been arranged yet. The Fleet's last match was away at Cambridge. A good performance saw the Reds pick up an impressive one all draw at the Abbey Stadium, leaving manager Liam Daish still without a victory at his former home. Matt Godden had put the visitors ahead after a mistake from U's defender Charlie Wassmer, but man of the match Harrison Dunk grabbed the equaliser with ten minutes to spare.

KEY PLAYERS:

 Manager John Still is rotating his squad around at the moment so he can see who will fit his requirements for next season, therefore it is tough to pick a standout player. One who the Hatters will hope plays well is Steve McNulty. The centre back is a relatively new player at Kenilworth Road having signed on a free transfer from Fleetwood, and although he doesn't look like a football player, he's definitely solid at the back. In Ronnie Henry's recent absence, McNulty has filled in as captain. Dave Martin is another new player that Luton may look to. The former Millwall man had a slow start to his Luton career but his form recently has improved, and the left winger will be hoping he can continue his form towards the end of the season and going into next season.

The Fleet will once again look to striker Matt Godden. Missing out on game time on Saturday due to a postponement, the youngster will be eager to get back onto the field and scoring. Five goals in eight league games for the Fleet, he'll be keen to add to that as the Fleet look to survive the drop. With the Luton players seeing this as the ideal chance to boost their form in front of goal, Preston Edwards will need to be on form.

TEAM NEWS:

 Luton have two players on the long-term injury list. Defender Garry Richards and midfielder Danny Spiller both suffered injuries in pre-season after signing contracts with the Hatters. Both have been out of action since. Midfielder Scott Neilson had a Hernia op last week and will remain on the sidelines for the last few weeks of the season. Defender Janos Kovacs has been out of action for the last few games with hamstring problems, it is unknown when he is due back, and influential midfielder Alex Lawless has been missing for the same reason. Striker Stuart Fleetwood has been out of the squad for the last few games.

 

Long-term absentee Moses Ashikodi is edging ever closer to a spot in the Fleet side. On-loan defender Jack Saville, who went off at Wrexham on March 5 with a hamstring injury, has said he is close to a return. It is still unknown whether Craig Stone will be back before the end of the season. The right back suffered an ankle injury away at Grimsby on 26 February and has been out of action since.

LUTON'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DWDLDD):

 Luton Town 0-0 Tamworth
Luton Town 1-0 Stockport County
Wrexham 0-0 Luton Town
Luton Town 1-2 Hyde
Luton Town 1-1 Hereford United
Nuneaton Town 0-0 Luton Town

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DWLDLL):

 Cambridge United 1-1 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 4-1 Southport
Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County
Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United
Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United

PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

 The two clubs haven't met a lot over the years, due to Luton's higher League placing. In the five matches that they have played each other a total of twenty three goals have been scored, with Luton scoring sixteen of them. The first meeting between the sides was a memorable one for the Fleet. During their relegation season, they went to Kenilworth Road and recorded a fantastic 2-3 victory. Unfortunately, the Hatters got revenge with a 1-6 victory, scoring all seven of the goals.

27.08.2012. Ebbsfleet United 1-3 Luton Town
17.04.2012. Luton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United
11.10.2011. Ebbsfleet United 2-2 Luton Town
20.03.2010. Ebbsfleet United 1-6 Luton Town
30.01.2010. Luton Town 2-3 Ebbsfleet United

LAST TIME OUT:

 Ebbsfleet United 1-3 Luton Town

The Fleet continued their poor start with another loss. This 1-3 loss meant they had conceded seven goals in their last two matches. Two goals from Stuart Fleetwood and a Scott Rendell goal gave the Hatters a 1-3 win. Fleetwood started off the win with a net finish from close range following good work from Rendell. Six minutes later, it was role reversal as Fleetwood produced a ball from the byline for Rendell to tap in. Fleetwood made it three in on 73 minutes from eight yards out. Substitute Nathan Elder scored a late consolation goal for the Fleet.

Attendance: 2,018.

HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

 William Hill have Luton favourites at 1/2, with the Fleet at 19/5. A draw for this game sees odds of 3/1.

Ladbrokes too have Luton at 1/2 favourites. A Fleet win sees odds of 4/1. A draw sees odds of 14/5. If you fancy the Fleet to record a shock 0-1 victory then you can get good odds of 16/1.

 

Bet Victor have Luton to win at 1/2 with the Fleet at 11/2. A draw sees odds of 7/2. If you fancy Luton to record a comfortable 3-0 victory then the odds for that are 12/1.

Barrow v Ebbsfleet United

 

 














Ebbsfleet United picked up their first point on the road since November 17 on Tuesday, now they have to go one better.

The Fleet face a long trek to Cumbria to face Barrow on Saturday and will be looking to secure all three points against their relegation rivals to boost their own survival hopes. A win for Barrow will almost certainly put an end to the Fleet's survival hopes and could see the Bluebirds rise out of the relegation zone.

Barrow AFC
Founded  1901
Nickname The Bluebirds                                                                             
Ground Holker Street
Manager  David Bayliss
Captain Gavin Skelton
Top scorer Adam Boyes (12)

Barrow, like the Fleet, have been struggling at the wrong end of the table all season. It took them until September 8 to pick up their first win; a 1-3 victory away at Tamworth. The Bluebirds have recorded some huge losses this season, including 8-1 and 6-1 losses away at Mansfield and Luton respectively. Despite this they have picked up some impressive results including a 0-2 win away at promotion chasing Newport County and a 1-0 win at home to Luton. On the Cup front, the Bluebirds have been fairly successful. In the FA Trophy they made it to the fourth round before losing to Gainsborough Trinity of the Conference North. The Cumbrian outfit made it to the second round of the FA Cup before losing 4-1 in the replay to Macclesfield, after drawing the initial game 1-1.

Barrow faced a hell of a trip on Tuesday night as they travelled to Kent to face surprise package Dartford. On their second visit to Kent this season, the Bluebirds recorded their second win after beating Saturday's opponents at Stonebridge Road earlier in the season. The fans at Princes Park had to wait until the 74th minute for the first goal, when Darts defender Richard Rose fouled Alex-Ray Harvey in the area. Richie Baker stepped up and scored from the spot to give the visitors a precious win.

The Fleet recently knocked off a bogey side in Southport, and were looking to do the same as they travelled to Cambridge, the former home of manager Liam Daish. With both sides struggling to string a move together it was no surprise they went into half-time goalless. The Fleet rode their luck a bit before on-loan striker Matt Godden was put through on goal via a failed interception from U's defender Charlie Wassmer. The youngster made no mistake as he smashed his effort past the U's 'keeper to put the Fleet into the lead. On a night where results went against the Fleet, again, it was important they held onto the lead, unfortunately man of the match Harrison Dunk levelled the match with ten minutes to go. Debutant Johnny Gorman's effort was blocked and Dunk was on hand to strike into the empty net. Godden had a golden chance to win the game for the Fleet in injury time after some fine work from Liam Bellamy gave the striker a chance to hit home from inside the area, however he sidefooted his effort wide of goal, and with that went the Fleet's hopes of closing the gap on those sides above them.

KEY PLAYERS:

Barrow look to top scorer Adam Boyes to lead them to victory. The striker has hit twelve goals this campaign and will look to be adding to that against the worst defence in the league, although he has only hit three goals in his last ten matches. Barrow will also look to influential midfielder Richie Baker. The twenty five year old has been a regular in the first-team since joining in 2011 and has hit nine goals this season, including a hattrick at Stonebridge Road. The Fleet may need to keep him quiet if they are to get anything from the game.

The Fleet will be looking to on-loan Matt Godden. The striker is back at Stonebridge Road for a second time this season and is keen to impress his parent club with goals to keep the Fleet alive in the fight against relegation. The youngster has hit five goals in his eight league appearences and will be looking to add to that tally when the Fleet travel to Holker Street. Paul Lorraine will need to be on form for the trip to Barrow. The Bluebirds' midfield and attack will look to exploit the Fleet at every opportunity and the Fleet defence will need to be able to keep them out in this must win game.

TEAM NEWS:

Recent signings Adam Dawson and Steve Williams made their debuts in the game against Dartford and will look to continue gelling with the squad. Barrow started their last match at Dartford with just three substitutes.

The Fleet have no fresh worries with their squad.

BARROW'S LAST SIX MATCHES (WLLDWL):

Dartford 0-1 Barrow
Hereford United 2-1 Barrow
Barrow 0-2 Stockport County
Forest Green Rovers 1-1 Barrow
Barrow 2-0 Tamworth
Barrow 0-1 Wrexham

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DWLDLL):

Cambridge United 1-1 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 4-1 Southport
Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County
Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United
Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United

PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

Ebbsfleet and Barrow have met thirteen times in League action, Barrow leading the head-to-head with seven wins to the Fleet's four. You will have to travel back to September 1979 for the first meeting between the sides. Gravesend (as they were back then) ran out 5-1 winners at Stonebridge Road.

22.09.12. Ebbsfleet United 2-4 Barrow

03.12.11. Barrow 1-1 Ebbsfleet United

03.09.11. Ebbsfleet United 1-2 Barrow

27.02.10. Ebbsfleet United 1-4 Barrow

17.10.09. Barrow 2-0 Ebbsfleet United

LAST TIME OUT:

Ebbsfleet United 2-4 Barrow

A Richie Baker hattrick gave the Cumbrians three points against fellow relegation strugglers Ebbsfleet.

Baker gave the visitors the lead in the 20th minute with a volley from inside the area. Paul Rutherford doubled Barrow's lead just five minutes later before Baker all but secured the win from the spot in the 36th minute. The Fleet just couldn't wait to hear the half-time whistle. The hosts came out for the second half a different outfit and goals from Tom Phipp and Nathan Elder gave the Fleet every chance of rescuing something until the 63rd minute. The hosts gave away a silly free kick on the edge of the area and of course Baker punished them, hitting his effort off the underside of the bar and in.

Attendance: 780.

HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

William Hill have Barrow slight favourites at Evens with the Fleet at 23/10. A draw for this game sees odds of 12/5.If you fancy the hosts to record a 2-0 win then you can get odds of 12/1. If you fancy the Fleet to win both halves then you can get odds of 8/1.

Bet Victor have Barrow to win at 21/20 with the Fleet at 13/5. If you fancy a draw then you can get odds of 13/5. If you fancy Barrow striker to grab the first goal then the odds for that are 19/4. If you fancy Richie Baker to grab another surprise hattrick then you can get odds of 50/1.

Labrokes have Barrow at 19/20 with the Fleet at 11/5. A draw for this match sees odds of 23/10. If you can't split the sides and fancy a 0-0 bore draw then the odds for that are 12/1.

Cambridge United 1-1 Ebbsfleet United

Harrison Dunk put in a Man of the Match performance

 

 



A Harrison Dunk goal prevented Ebbsfleet from getting their first win at the Abbey Stadium.

Unchanged from the 4-1 victory over Southport, spirits were high as the Fleet were hoping to cause a shock by beating Cambridge United away from home for the first time in seven attempts. The travelling fans had every reason to believe when Matt Godden struck past Nick Pope, unfortunately Dunk was on hand to smash the ball home when Johnny Gorman's effort was blocked off the line.

Cambridge begun the game playing some neat football, passing it around and getting in some good positions. Their first opportunity came as early as the fifth minute when they were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area. Dunk's attempt to cross the ball got a bit too much curl as the ball flew over the bar. Godden registered the Fleet's first shot on target when his deflected shot looped into the grateful arms of the on-loan keeper.

As the half wore on, the Cambridge wingers were beginning to find more and more space, although they weren't troubling the Fleet defence enough.

A moment of confusion in the Fleet backline almost gave the hosts the lead. A weak ball in was first sliced by Phil Walsh and then by temporary right back Tom Phipp. Fortunately for the Fleet, Preston Edwards was there to clean up.

The U's best chance of the half came soon after. A long ball over the top - very similar to the one in the first minute of the reverse fixture - gave striker Tom Elliott time and space to smash home, only he tried to cut in on his right foot allowing the Fleet defenders to get back and make the challenge. Dunk had a shot soon after, which was blocked and landed in Liam Hughes' path - his effort was deflected wide.

The Fleet's best chance of the half came when a corner was headed into the path of Godden eight yards out. His volley was destined for the net until Rossi Jarvis produced a fine block on the line.

Neither side produced many clear cut opportunities but perhaps both sides should have scored before the interval.

HT: 0-0.



The second half begun and it was Cambridge who started brightly, with Josh Coulson heading straight at the keeper from an Andy Pugh free-kick. The Fleet then went close with their own header as Liam Bellamy's cross was met by the head of Walsh. His effort went just wide of the post.

The U's went close twice in quick succession soon after. Dunk's decent delivery found Kevin Roberts, he glanced his header a whisker wide of the goal. Hughes then went even closer as Elliot's low cross found him in space near the penalty spot, his effort brushed the side netting. Half of the ground thought it was in!

The Fleet had rode their luck a little but Godden went close after. He had been a pain all evening and his curling shot from the edge of the area took the slightest of deflections, leaving Pope stranded. The post came to Cambridge's rescue and they were able to clear the resulting corner with ease.

Twelve minutes later and the Fleet were ahead. Substitute Liam Enver-Marum attempted to thread the ball through to Godden, and what looked to be a relatively easy interception for Charlie Wassmer turned into a nightmare. He touched the ball into Godden's path and the striker was through on goal, allowing him all the time in the world to pick his spot. He thrashed his shot home, giving the travelling support huge hope of back-to-back wins for the first time since mid November.

The Fleet were on course for their first victory at the Abbey Stadium until ten minutes from time. A mistake from Ashley Carew in midfield allowed the U's to progress with the ball and a cross from Elliott found debutant Johnny Gorman in space and his effort was blocked off the line, only for Dunk to hit home the rebound from eight yards out.

Cambridge were spurred on by the goal and piled pressure on the Fleet backline in the last ten minutes, the ball just wouldn't break kindly for them.

Going into injury time, Godden had one more chance to give the Fleet the points after some good work from Bellamy. The midfielder managed to square the ball and Godden, on his weaker foot, stretched to put his effort wide. The last chance of the game - gone.

The Fleet would certainly have taken a point pre-match but given the fact Nuneaton and Barrow recorded wins, they now sit a point further adrift than when the evening started! Cambridge drop a place to 10th while the Fleet remain in 23rd. Cambridge travel to Hyde next Tuesday while the Fleet face the long trek to Barrow on Saturday, a game that they'll be desperate for three points.

Attendance:
1,737 (50 away)

Cambridge:
Pope, Roberts, Coulson, Wassmer, Haynes-Brown, Shaw, Dunk, Jarvis (Berry - 72), Elliott, Pugh (Gorman - 61), Hughes (Blissett - 77).

Subs not used: Anderson, McAuley.

Ebbsfleet:
Edwards, Phipp, Lorraine, Walsh, Howe, Barrett, Bellamy, Carew, Elder (Marum - 68), Godden, Payne (Azeez - 57).

Subs not used: Menz, Blake, Williams.

Man of the Match:

Harrison Dunk (Cambridge)

Cambridge United v Ebbsfleet United

Tuesday night's rearranged fixture sees Ebbsfleet travel to the Abbey Stadium to face Cambridge, a side they have only beaten twice in thirteen matches. The sides have met at the Abbey six times with Cambridge winning four of them, the other two ending in draws. The Fleet will be looking to record back-to-back wins for the first time since mid November when they beat Hyde and Macclesfield. The Fleet have lost their last seven away matches.

Cambridge United FC
Founded - 1912 (as Abbey United)
Nicknames - The U's, United
Ground - The Abbey Stadium
Manager - Richard Money
Captain - Kevin Roberts
Top scorer - Tom Elliott (13)


 

 

 

Cambridge are again a comfortable mid-table side in the Blue Square Premier. The fans would have been hoping they could at least make some sort of challenge for the play-offs but it wasn't to be for another year. The U's were struggling at the wrong end of the table but a run of nine games unbeaten, stretching two months, saw them creep up the table and into a safe position. On the cup front the U's have struggled this season, falling at the first hurdle in the FA Cup after a 0-2 defeat at home to Luton before a 0-1 loss to Gateshead in the FA Trophy second round.

Cambridge picked up an impressive three points last time out as they travelled to a below-par Grimsby Town. The 0-1 victory was secured midway through the first half when on-loan defender Tom Naylor headed into his own net. The 21-year old also had the best chance to equalise for the hosts but chipped his effort wide. Following this victory, Cambridge move up to ninth place in the league with 52 points.

Saturday saw the best twenty nine minutes the Fleet will have in a game for some time! Goals from Liam Bellamy, Stefan Payne, Nathan Elder and Matt Godden gave the the hosts a 4-0 lead before the half hour mark. The Fleet also had another goal ruled out in a first half that saw an immense showing in front of goal. The second half, as you'd expect, the Fleet took their foot off the gas a little and Chris Almond scored a consolation goal just after the interval. Influential winger Shaun Whalley deserved a goal towards the end of the game when his vicious thirty-yard effort struck the underside of the bar. The Fleet remain in 23rd place but have cut the gap to five points now.



INVOLVED WITH BOTH:

One man who has been involved with both sides is considered a 'club legend' on both sides. Ebbsfleet boss Liam Daish has been involved with the Kent outfit since 2005, helping them to their highest ever League finish in 2006/07 (7th in the Conference Premier). The club have also won the FA Trophy final at Wembley, beating Torquay 1-0. Despite the club being relegated with him in charge in 2010, he helped them back up at the first attempt. Daish's links with Cambridge go back to 1988 when he joined them. In the six years he spent there, he clocked up over 100 games for the club helping them to achieve promotion from the old fourth division (now League Two) and the third division (now League One). Still highly thought of by the U's fans, he'll be hoping he can get the edge over his old club for only the third time in his eight year tenure.


KEY PLAYERS:

Cambridge look to striker Tom Elliott to win them this game. The striker has thirteen goals to his name this season including a hattrick at Stonebridge Road earlier in the season. Strong and pacy, the striker will be hoping to add to his tally against the side with the worst defensive record. Despite clubs coming in for him in January, the club held firm and last week Elliott signed a new deal with the U's, much to the delight of their fans. Another stand out player for the U's is central defender Charlie Wassmer. The youngster was part of Crawley's Blue Square Bet Premier and League Two title winning sides and has slotted in well since signing for the U's in January. He'll be hoping to keep up the good performances as the season draws to a close.

The Fleet look to Nathan Elder for goals. The number nine has begun scoring goals again and will look to keep this up as the Fleet look to boost their survival hopes further with a win. The striker has hit 15 League goals this season and has a real chance of getting to 20 before the season finishes. He's been tough to handle for most defenders this season. The Fleet will be hoping shot stopper Preston Edwards is on form too. He's been vital all season and no doubt Cambridge will look to put away the chances they create. Edwards will need the help of his defenders too.

TEAM NEWS:

Billy Gibson (groin) and Sam Smith (broken hand) are long term absentees for the U's. 'Keeper Nick Pope (on loan from Charlton) will look to continue his good form that has seen him keep two clean sheets in his previous two matches. Cambridge have recently signed Johnny Gorman on loan from Wolves, the winger was an unused substitute in the U's previous game and will look to get some game time as soon as possible. An interesting fact about the youngster - since turning professional in 2011, he has played more international games for his country (ten appearances for Northern Ireland) than he has for all three of the club's he's played for. He's made four appearances at Wolves, Plymouth and Macclesfield. One player who won't be involved is former Fleet striker Michael Gash, as he's been on loan at title chasing Kidderminster Harriers for the past few weeks.

The Fleet have an almost full squad to choose from. Joe Howe, Neil Barrett and Stefan Payne have recently returned to the squad, leaving just full back Craig Stone and long-term absentee Moses Ashikodi missing from the squad - the latter is back in training. Youngster Tobi Alabi has returned to Millwall early from his loan spell and is going to pursue an opprtunity to play in Sweden.

CAMBRIDGE'S LAST SIX MATCHES (WWLDLL):

Grimsby Town 0-1 Cambridge United

Cambridge United 1-0 Woking

Southport 2-1 Cambridge United

Cambridge United 0-0 Forest Green Rovers

Tamworth 1-2 Cambridge United

Cambridge United 1-3 Hereford United

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (WLDLLL):

Ebbsfleet United 4-1 Southport

Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County

Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United

Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United

Grimsby Town 3-1 Ebbsfleet United

PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

Cambridge have always had the upper hand over the Fleet, this is probably the best chance the Fleet will have to grab a victory at the Abbey.

04.12.12. Ebbsfleet United 2-4 Cambridge United
06.12.11. Ebbsfleet United 0-0 Cambridge United

20.09.11. Cambridge United 2-0 Ebbsfleet United

10.10.09. Cambridge United 4-0 Ebbsfleet United

11.08.09. Ebbsfleet United 1-3 Cambridge United

LAST TIME OUT:

Ebbsfleet United 2-4 Cambridge United.

A hattrick from Tom Elliott gave the U's all three points on a cold evening at Stonebridge Road. Cambridge, who were below Ebbsfleet before the match, scored in the opening minute as a long ball over the top caught the Fleet defence knapping, allowing Elliott to hit home from the edge of the area. Goals from Matt Godden and Liam Enver-Marum put the hosts ahead but the U's struck back with Sam Smith and Elliott putting them ahead before Elliott rounded off the finishing 14 minutes from time. The visitors had striker Andy Pugh sent off but managed to hold out to leapfrog Ebbsfleet in the table.

Attendance: 842.

HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

William Hill have Cambridge to win at 4/6 with the Fleet coming in at 3/1. A draw for this match sees odds of 13/5.

Bet Victor have Cambridge favourites to win too with odds of 7/10 and the Fleet at 17/4. A draw sees odds of 3/1. If you fancy Cambridge to grab a 3-1 win you will get odds of 14/1.

Ladbrokes have Cambridge favourites at 4/7 with the Fleet at 7/2. A draw for this match sees odds of 11/4. If you fancy the Fleet to pick up a shot 0-2 win then you will get odds of 20/1.

Ebbsfleet United v Southport

Ebbsfleet go into this Saturday's all important home game desperate for all three points. The visitors to Stonebridge Road are Southport, a side the Fleet have only beaten once in nine attempts.

Southport FC

Founded - 1881 (As Southport Central)

Nickname - The Sandgrounders

Ground - Merseyrail Community Stadium

Manager - Liam Watson

Captain - Simon Grand

Top scorer - Karl Ledsham/Shaun Whalley (8)

After an excellent season last year, finishing 7th, the Sandgrounders have continued to impress under Liam Watson as they sit comfortably in mid-table in Non-League's top division. Southport have only won one of their last five Blue Square Premier matches and, against the side with the worst defensive record in all of the top five divisions, they'll be looking to record a comfortable win here.

The Fleet's last match was certainly one to forget. After an impressive draw at home to Newport County, confidence was high for the trip to Alfreton. Unfortunately they were never really at the races, as the home side ran out 3-0 winners with goals from Dan Bradley, Ben Tomlinson and debutant Jordan Rose. After this devastating loss the Fleet remain in 23rd position but have now slipped to seven points adrift of safety after Hyde picked up a surprise victory at Luton Town.

Southport were on course for three points in their last match until two goals in the last five minutes gave play-off hopefuls Forest Green the points. Joint top scorer Shaun Whalley had put the hosts one up from the spot in the 30th minute of the game. Forest Green had the better of the game and created more opportunities but couldn't get through. The goal did eventually come when substitute Yemi Odubade finished from six yards out. Rovers weren't settling for the point and debutant Wes Burns finished from close range in the 90th minute after signing on loan from Bristol City earlier in the day. Forest Green have closed the gap on the last play-off spot to just three points now, but they have played more matches than all of the sides above them.

KEY PLAYERS:


The Fleet will look to Nathan Elder to grab a goal or two against Southport. The number nine has 14 goals for the season and will be looking for his goals to contribute to their push for survival. Preston Edwards is another player the Fleet will hope is on form. Despite having the worst defensive record, the shot stopper has been one of the Fleet's best players this season and without him guarding goal, it's quite possible the Reds will already be relegated.

Shaun Whalley is Southport's stand out player. The winger has been on good form this season and will look to continue his form for the remainder of the season. Karl Ledsham is a key player in the Sandgrounders squad. Not only is he joint top scorer but he's an influential player in the middle of the park for them.

TEAM NEWS:


Stefan Payne and Joe Howe have recently returned to the squad for the Fleet. There's still no news on whether Craig Stone is back fit, and midfielder Neil Barrett could be back in contention after missing the Alfreton game due to illness. Long-term absentee Moses Ashikodi is back in training and will be fighting for a place in the squad. The striker has been missing from the squad since the 8th December with a knee injury.

Southport are missing Steven Akrigg and Chris Lynch, both are out long-term. Andy Owens and Aaron Chalmers are doubts, both have had slight hamstring strains recently. Midfielder Godfrey Poku serves the last of his two-game suspension for picking up 10 yellow cards and defender Neil Byrne serves the second of a three game suspension after picking up a straight red card at Lincoln. Southport have this week signed Danny Hattersley on loan from Stockport County. The striker could be in contention to make his debut against the Fleet.

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (LDLLLW):


Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County

Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United

Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United

Grimsby Town 3-1 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United 1-0 Hereford United

SOUTHPORT'S LAST SIX MATCHES (LLWDLW):


Southport 1-2 Forest Green Rovers

Lincoln City 1-0 Southport

Southport 2-1 Cambridge United

Southport 2-2 Dartford

Southport 1-2 Woking

Southport 5-2 Barrow

PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:


The previous three matches between the two teams have seen seven penalties given, six of them being awarded to Southport.

15.09.12. Southport 1-0 Ebbsfleet United

21.04.12. Southport 3-3 Ebbsfleet United

25.02.12. Ebbsfleet United 1-2 Southport

14.04.07. Ebbsfleet United 0-4 Southport

02.09.06. Southport 2-2 Ebbsfleet United

The Fleet's last victory against Southport came on 03.09.05 - a 2-1 victory at Stonebridge Road.

LAST TIME OUT:


Southport 1-0 Ebbsfleet.

A dull affair was decided by a penalty in the last minute of the match. Liam Enver-Marum missed from the spot for the Fleet before Tony Gray saw his penalty saved by Edwards. Patrick Ada's foul on Chris Almond was un-necessary, and Southport made no mistake this time. Chris Lever guided his penalty into the top corner of the net to give the hosts all three points.

Attendance: 872.

HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:


William Hill have the Fleet to win at 8/5 and Southport at 6/4. A draw for this match sees odds of 23/10. If you fancy a 2-2 scoreline then the odds for that are 12/1. If you fancy the Fleet to keep only their fourth clean sheet of the season then you can get odds of 3/1. Southport to keep a clean sheet sees odds of 14/5.

Bet Victor cannot split the sides, with both coming in at 13/8. A draw sees odds of 12/5. If you think Enver-Marum can grab the first goal, you can get odds of 6/1.

Ladbrokes cannot split the sides either, with both of the odds at 7/5 and a draw at 12/5. If you fancy Southport to sneak a 1-2 win the odds are 8/1.

Alfreton Town 3-0 Ebbsfleet United

Dan Bradley slams his penalty home.

The Fleet went into this away game with every chance of going home with three points. Unfortunately they were never really in the game as Alfreton walked away with a comfortable 3-0 victory with goals from Dan Bradley, Ben Tomlinson and debutant Jordan Rose.

Liam Daish was forced into a change to the Ebbsfleet starting eleven as Neil Barrett fell ill. He was replaced by Joe Howe, meaning Tom Phipp was back into the centre of midfield after playing the last couple of games at right back. Stefan Payne returned from an ankle injury suffered at Grimsby but was only on the bench, in place of Tobi Alabi.

Alfreton started brightly, having four corners in the opening ten minutes. The Fleet defended everything that was thrown their way until the 14th minute when captain Paul Lorraine bundled Paul Clayton to the floor. Bradley confidently stepped up and hit the ball to Edwards' left. Despite guessing the correct way, the 'keeper wasn't able to keep out the penalty. Nathan Elder's weak effort from outside of the area was saved comfortably by the Alfreton 'keeper Jordan Pickford.

Former Fleet loanee Louie Soares was giving his old team mates a tough time and he almost set up a second goal for the Reds soon after as his ball in was met by top scorer Clayton just eight yards from goal. Fortunately for the Fleet his effort went wide of the goal. The Fleet's best chance of the match came after a flick on from Liam Enver-Marum landed in Matt Godden's path. The on-loan striker's sweetly struck shot beat Pickford but smashed against the post and the Alfreton defence was able to clear, under no pressure from the Fleet forwards.

It was 2-0 soon after as Clayton's byline cross caused confusion in the box and was prodded in by Tomlinson. With a mountain to climb the Fleet showed no will to get back into the game, with Phipp blasting his only effort over the bar from the edge of the area. A swerving shot from outside of the box nearly caught Edwards off guard, but the 'keeper did well to parry over the bar. Clayton's header from the resulting corner was saved. The last chance of the half fell to the Fleet as Godden's first touch set him up for a volley, but his effort was blocked and cleared to safety.

HT: 2-0.

The opening 20 minutes or so in the second half didn't really bring any clear cut chances for either side. The first chance of the half came when Soares' through ball was met by Tomlinson, who's effort was well saved by Edwards.

If it wasn't already game over, it definitely was on 71 minutes. The Fleet failed to defend a corner Rose was there to finish from eight yards out. This capped an excellent debut for Rose, who showed he was capable both in the air and on the floor. Judging by this performance, it's a surprise AFC Telford allowed him to go out on loan!

Edwards was called into action again, making two decent saves from Steven Hewitt and Clayton. Nathan Arnold saw his effort from outside of the box drift just wide of the goal before Clayton's effort in the last few minutes was blocked by Howe.

The last chance of the game fell to the Fleet as an Ashlew Carew free-kick was met by the head of Godden from twelve yards out. His header went just wide of the far post.

Alfreton fans would have been delighted with this victory, although it was a shame only 459 people turned up to watch.

Alfreton move up to 14th with this win and are eight points above safety. No more looking over their shoulder for them now, their Blue Square Premier safety is pretty much secure. Up next for the Reds is Gateshead, who are looking to give themselves a little breathing space from the bottom four. The Fleet remain in 23rd place but due to Hyde's 1-2 victory at Luton, they are now seven points from safety. Southport are the visitors to Stonebridge Road on Saturday, a match the Fleet are desperate to win. Another bad result with other results going against them could see the Fleet slip further in trouble!

Alfreton:

Pickford, Law, Quinn, Rose, Franklin, Soares (Arnold 71), Bradley (Meadows 76), Brown, Arnold, Clayton, Tomlinson (Boden 76).

Subs not used: Franks, Worsfold.

Ebbsfleet:

Edwards, Howe, Gwillim, Lorraine, Walsh, Bellamy (Azeez 54), Carew, Phipp, Enver-Marum (Payne 54), Elder, Godden.

Subs not used: Menz, Blake, Shitta

Attendance: 459.

Alfreton Town v Ebbsfleet United

 

 

 

It's coming up to Tuesday evening which can only mean one thing: Ebbsfleet United are involved in a match away from home. After recent night trips to Grimsby Town and Wrexham, the 'Fleet now travel to Alfreton Town hoping to pick up three vital points in their push for safety.

Alfreton Town FC


Founded 1959

Nickname The Reds

Ground Impact Arena

Manager  Nicky Law

Captain Darran Kempson

Top scorer Paul Clayton (14)

Alfreton have had a mixed season so far. Although they are quite a way from the drop zone, they are certainly not out of the relegation dog fight. Fortunately for them they have a kind run in that should see them pick up enough points to survive. On the Cup front the Reds were knocked out at the first hurdle in the FA Trophy but a respectable FA Cup campaign saw them defeat Gateshead and Wrexham before bowing out 2-4 at home to League One side Leyton Orient. Alfreton's home form this season has been fairly patchy, winning just 4 of their 16 home games, drawing 5 and losing 7.

 

 

Alfreton's last match saw them pick up a point away at Tamworth. Louie Soares scored his first goal for Alfreton since signing on loan from Grimsby. The winger hit home from just inside the box in the 29th minute. The second half saw a much better performance from the Lambs as they got back into the game and equalised through Darren Byfield in the 65th minute.

 

The 'Fleet played host to title contenders Newport County on Saturday and finished the game with a share of the points. The visitors took the lead on the stroke of half time when Lee Minshull got in ahead of the 'Fleet defenders to head home a Scott Donnelly cross. Newport may have felt a little hard done by just after half-time as Byron Anthony was down awaiting treatment and, much to their disgust, the referee allowed the game to play on. The 'Fleet took full advantage as a cross wasn't dealt with allowing Liam Enver-Marum to hit the back of the net from 8 yards out. County had a golden chance to win the game in the last minute of injury time as Phil Walsh brought down substitute Robbie Willmott in the area. Andy Sandell stepped up and powerfully drove the ball, fortunately Preston Edwards guessed the right way and kept out his spot kick - much to the delight of the 'Fleet players and fans. Neither side created enough to win the match, a draw was a fair reflection of how the game panned out.

KEY PLAYERS:


If he plays, Paul Clayton will be vital for the Reds. The striker has hit 14 goals this season and will look to add to his tally sooner rather than later. Louie Soares is another player that Alfreton may look to. The winger has been in good form since joining on loan, scoring and assisting in both of his last two matches.

The 'Fleet will be looking to Nathan Elder to add to his tally of goals in this match. 14 for the season, the striker will need to be in top form not only in this match, but for the remainder of the season. The 'Fleet have got enough games coming up against teams around them, they'll be hoping they have enough to secure the wins needed to survive. Matt Godden will want to return to the form he had in his previous loan spell at the 'Fleet. The youngster, on loan from Scunthorpe, hit 3 goals in 5 matches before being recalled and will want to find the net frequently again.

TEAM NEWS:


Captain Darran Kempson will be missing after picking up a groin strain on Saturday, he's the only 'fresh' worry for boss Nicky Law. Theo Streete (last game of four-game suspension) and Phil Barnes are still missing from the squad. One player on the Alfreton team sheet that will be known to 'Fleet fans is Louie Soares. The winger spent time on loan at the 'Fleet earlier in the season. He's recently signed on loan at Alfreton for the remainder of the season.

 It is unknown whether Craig Stone and Stefan Payne are able to make their returns for the 'Fleet.

ALFRETON'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DDWLLL):

Tamworth 1-1 Alfreton Town

Wrexham 1-1 Alfreton Town
Alfreton Town 5-1 Hyde
Kidderminster Harriers 3-1 Hyde
Nuneaton Town 1-0 Alfreton Town
Alfreton Town 1-2 Macclesfield Town

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX MATCHES (DLLLWD):


Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County
Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United
Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United
Grimsby Town 3-1 Ebbsfleet United
Ebbsfleet United 1-0 Hereford United
Ebbsfleet United 0-0 Stockport County

 

PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

13.10.2012. Ebbsfleet United 0-0 Alfreton Town

27.03.2012. Ebbsfleet United 1-2 Alfreton Town
24.09.2011. Alfreton Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United

LAST TIME OUT:

 

Ebbsfleet United 0-0 Alfreton Town.

Preston Edwards produced a Man of the Match performance to give relegation threatened Ebbsfleet a point at home to Alfreton. The young shot stopped came out with 2 or 3 blinding stops to keep the visitors at bay. They would have been heading home with three points in the bag had it not been for him.

Attendance: 804.

 

 

HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

William Hill have Alfreton to win at Evens with the 'Fleet at 13/5 and a draw coming in at 5/2. Six of the 'Fleet's eleven draws have ended 1-1. If you fancy a 1-1 draw the odds are 7/1.

 

Bet Victor have Alfreton to win at 21/20 with the 'Fleet at 5/2. A draw sees odds of 13/5. If you fancy Nathan Elder to score with the 'Fleet winning 1-2 then you can get odds of 35/1.

 

Ladbrokes also have Alfreton at Evens. The 'Fleet are 2/1 to win with 12/5 the odds for a draw. If you fancy a 2-0 home win then the odds for that are 10/1.



Ebbsfleet United v Newport County

After a horrific run of away matches against top five opposition, it doesn't get any easier for the 'Fleet. This Saturday, title contenders Newport County are the visitors to Stonebridge Road. Having won ten of their fifteen away matches this season, and recorded a victory in each of their last five matches, it's going to be yet another tough afternoon for the boys in red.


Newport County AFC

Founded  - 1912. Re-formed again in 1989 after bankruptcy

Nicknames -  The Exiles, County

Ground - Rodney Parade

Manager - Justin Edinburgh

Captain - David Pipe

Top Scorer - Aaron O'Connor (17)


 
Newport find themselves in a five-way scrap for the Blue Square Premier title at the moment. County sit three points from the top having played less games than all of the teams above them and they'll certainly be hoping they can keep up the good form they have been on. Newport have had a fair few high scoring matches this season with four or more goals occuring in 15 of their 33 matches. Stand out victories for the Exiles include a terrific 5-2 victory against Luton and an exciting 3-4 victory away at Mansfield in their first match of the season. Manager Edinburgh has recently come out and said how much he is against the one automatic promotion place from this division. He feels clubs who perform consistently throughout the season are missing out on a shot in the League due to just one automatic promotion spot.

The 'Fleet will want to forget their last match in a hurry. After good performances away at Grimsby and Kidderminster spirits were high. Unfortunately the confidence was shot to pieces after just a minute when a goalmouth scramble was smashed home by Dele Adebola. An excellent passing move was finished off by veteran Brett Ormerod before Kevin Thornton and substitute Rob Ogleby gave the Dragons a 4-0 half-time lead. Wrexham took their foot off the gas in the second half and Nathan Elder capitalised with a neat finish for his 13th of the season. 4-1 was not a true reflection of how the game played out, but it certainly flattered the 'Fleet. The 'Fleet still sit in 23rd place in the league, five points from safety.

Newport twice came from behind away at Hereford before Robbie Willmott grabbed a stoppage time winner to give County all three points. Josh O'Keefe twice put the Bulls ahead but Lee Minshull equalised both times. Willmott then smashed home from just inside the area in the 93rd minute of the match. Interestingly Hereford had three penalties in the match and still managed to lose. Newport sit in fourth position in the league, three points from the top with games in hand.

　

KEY PLAYERS:

If he plays, Nathan Elder could be key for the 'Fleet if they are to get anything out of this game. The striker has hit 13 goals this season and has scored in each of his last two matches. Neil Barrett has been in exceptional form in an underachieving side this season. The 'Fleet will be hoping his presence in midfield helps them to victory.

If he plays, Aaron O'Connor is vital for the Exiles, not only in this game but for the remainder of the season. 17 goals and counting, the striker will be looking to add to his tally sooner rather than later. Ismail Yakubu is an important player in Newport's squad, having played games in both this division and league two he has enough 'know how' and experience to carry him through. A solid defender who wears his heart on his sleeve, he'll be looking to keep out an eager 'Fleet attack.

　

TEAM NEWS:

The 'Fleet welcome back striker Matt Godden into the squad. The youngster spent time on loan earlier in the season but was recalled by parent club Scunthorpe. He's signed on a months loan deal in time to be included in the squad for Saturday. Daish acted swiftly in getting Godden's services after Josh Scott's loan deal from Dagenham had expired. Joe Howe should be fit to take his place in the squad after missing the trip to Wrexham due to illness. There is no news on whether Stefan Payne and Craig Stone are fit to take their places in the squad.

The big news for Newport is striker Aaron O'Connor has returned to training after around a month out with injury. The top scorer could be in contention to play some part in the match, much to the relief of the fans. Fellow striker Danny Crow recently picked up a knock and may be unavailable for the trip to Ebbsfleet.

　

EBBSFLEET'S LAST SIX LEAGUE MATCHES (LLLWDW):

Wrexham 4-1 Ebbsfleet United

Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Ebbsfleet United

Grimsby Town 3-1 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United 1-0 Hereford United

Ebbsfleet Unitd 0-0 Stockport County

Ebbsfleet United 3-1 Gateshead

Goals: 8

Conceded: 11

　

NEWPORT'S LAST SIX LEAGUE MATCHES (WWWWWD):

Hereford United 2-3 Newport County

Hyde 0-1 Newport County

Newport County 2-1 AFC Telford United

Woking 1-3 Newport County

Newport County 2-0 Mansfield Town

Newport County 2-2 Tamworth

Goals: 13

Conceded: 6

 
PREVIOUS LEAGUE MEETINGS:

09.10.12. Newport County 1-0 Ebbsfleet United

05.11.11. Newport County 0-1 Ebbsfleet United

23.08.11. Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Newport County

　

LAST TIME OUT:

Newport County 1-0 Ebbsfleet United.

Newport came out of this tight match with three points and five points clear at the top of the Blue Square Premier. Centre back Ismail Yakubu headed his fifth goal of the season on the half-hour mark to give the Exiles all three points. The 'Fleet huffed and puffed but just couldn't put the ball in the net.

Attendance: 2,453

 
HOW THE BOOKIES SEE IT:

William Hill have the 'Fleet to win at 11/4. Despite having one of the better away records in the Division, Newport are only slight favourites at 5/6. The odds for a draw are 5/2. If you fancy the 'Fleet to win 1-0 then the odds are 14/1.

Bet Victor have the 'Fleet to win at 29/10 with the Exiles at 20/23. A draw for this game sees odds of 14/5. If you fancy Christian Jolley to grab two or more goals then the odds for this are 7/1.

Ladbrokes have the 'Fleet at 13/5 with Newport slight favourites at 4/5. 12/5 is the odds for a draw in this game. If you fancy a 1-1 draw then the odds for that are 13/2.