Uhlsport United Counties League, Premier Division South
Saturday April 15th 2023
Desborough Town v HISTON
Kick Off 3pm
The Stutes head to Northamptonshire on Saturday as they take on a much improved Desborough Town side, with Lance Key’s men striving to end their season in a positive manner. Having seen their Easter Monday fixture at Eynesbury Rovers postponed the side now face a hectic finish to the United Counties League campaign, with four games in the week ahead.
We have already faced Ar Tarn on three occasions this season, the first of which was way back on August 6th, when a goalless draw was played out at The Waterworks in FA Cup action. Just three days later we progressed into the next round with early goals from Luke Crisp and Ryan Towner followed up with a late Luke Lindsay brace in second half injury time. The latest meeting was held on December 3rd when again The Stutes got the better of their opponents, this time a 5-2 league win came. An own goal in the 46th minute set the home side on their way, with further goals from Max York, Ryan Towner, Connor Barnes and Dexter Todd. Barnes also failed to convert a spot kick, whilst the visitors ended the game with just 9 men. The goals for Desborough came from Adam Randall and Jordan O’Brien.
Since that eventful December afternoon our hosts have seen their fortunes improve somewhat, especially so more recently as they went through March with a 100% record from their 5 fixtures. Easington Sports, Godmanchester Rovers, Lutterworth Town, Cogenhoe United and Coventry United all came away with nothing from their ties with Jim Le Masurier’s side. They deservedly went on to collect the league’s team of the month award. The start to April has thus far not been so fruitful, as a 2-0 home defeat to Newport Pagnell Town was followed up on Monday with a 2-2 draw against struggling Rothwell Corinthians.
Ian Blaikie leads the scoring charts for Desborough, as he has amounted 15 goals from his 32 appearances this term. However, he has not struck in the 270+ minutes that he has played against The Stutes, which again may determine the outcome.
Not so fruitful is also how the last few weeks have been for The Stutes. Following their impressive nine game unbeaten stretch the side have failed to win in four fixtures, with a last gasp equaliser for visitors Coventry United on Saturday a frustrating end to what had for the most part been a positive performance infront of the Bridge Road faithful.
Returning on Saturday will be skipper Ollie Brookes and experience forward Dan Brown who were both unavailable a week ago. Just Pat Bexfield remains out of contention due to his long term injury.
Admission Prices:
Adults £6
Concessions £3
Children £2
Ground Address: Braybrooke Road, Desborough, NN14 2LJ
Travel Time: 53 Minutes, 49 miles
