Premier Division preview: Mariners back in action, league leaders on the road

Ahead of the game, Shields acquired the services of young forward Will Russ on loan from Fleetwood Town. He will go straight into contention for the fixture.

On the recent signing of Russ, boss Kevin Phillips said: “I think most people would agree that the only thing we’ve lacked so far this season is someone who consistently puts the ball in the net.

“He will bring added physicality because he is a big lad, is very athletic and he has shown he can score goals. We are hugely looking forward to working with him.”

Elsewhere, FC United of Manchester travel to Nethermoor to face off against Guiseley.

The Reds haven’t lost a league game since September 13, and victory could see them move seven points clear at the top of the division, with second-placed Matlock Town not in action until Saturday.

They will also hope to extend their unbeaten run against a Lions side currently sitting 15th in the table, with 18 points from their opening 13 matches.

Meanwhile, Ashton United welcome Stafford Rangers to Hurst Cross.

The Robins won their first league match since mid-September on Saturday and will be keen to build some momentum with another victory on home soil.

In the division’s other matches, Hyde United face Bamber Bridge at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium.

Both sides are in fine form in the league, unbeaten in their last four fixtures, and a win for either team could see them climb as high as fourth.

Radcliffe make a trip to struggling Belper Town, who have struggled of late to gain any sort of momentum.

Boro currently sit fourth, with 21 points amassed so far this season. However, they have played two games less than league leaders FC United.

Warrington Town will hope to build on last weekend’s 4-0 win over Liversedge as they travel to Lancaster City.

Three points on the road for the Yellows would move them securely into the top half of the table, depending on other results.

Elsewhere, a close encounter is on the cards as Marske United lock horns with Gainsborough Trinity.

The hosts were beaten at home last time out and will be keen to bounce back, while Trinity are currently unbeaten away from home in the Northern Premier League this season.

Whitby Town embark on their fifth consecutive league game away from home as they travel to Morpeth Town.

The Seasiders sit bottom of the division thus far, having only won two of their opening 11 league games.

Having made a strong start to the season, Marine will look to extend their two-game winning streak away at Stalybridge Celtic.

The Celts have not had a hopeful start to the 2022/23 term and will look to turn around their form with a positive result at Bower Fold.

Finally, Warrington Rylands welcome Atherton Collieries to Gorsey Lane.

Jody Banim’s side will go in search of their first league win since September 24, having suffered back to back 2-1 defeats of late.

Fixtures - Tuesday 18 October

Ashton United v Stafford Rangers
Bamber Bridge v Hyde United
Belper Town v Radcliffe
Guiseley v FC United of Manchester
Lancaster City v Warrington Town
Liversedge v South Shields
Marske United v Gainsborough Trinity
Morpeth Town v Whitby Town
Stalybridge Celtic v Marine
Warrington Rylands v Atherton Collieries

Photo credit: Darren Murphy