MATCH PREVIEW: First trip to Greenfields could be the last

Reds will bring down the curtain on the regular season with their longest trip of the campaign.

But their first ever visit to Market Drayton Town’s Greenfields Sports Ground could be the last for a while as the teams will be in different divisions next term.

Town’s first stint at Step 4 football has proved very difficult and they have obtained just eleven points in total, have conceded 113 league goals and suffered 30 defeats in their thirty seven matches. Their relegation is not unexpected but we wish them well in their recovery next season.

Although Reds have established the best defensive record in NPL West this season, Market Drayton were, in fact, the first team to score against Sam Smith & Co back in September. And a good goal it was too with Connor Hughes’ overhead kick a fine consolation after Dav Symington and Rowan Roache had established what proved to be a winning lead.

Chris Willcock will have a near full squad to select from for the final match and they will hope to register their 26th victory and at least do their part in the title scenario.

Warrington Town are expected to lift the title as they face Bootle on home soil but the League will presumably have to cover every eventuality in terms of what could happen on the final day.

There are a few potential permutations, obviously, but a Rylands win will guarantee them the title and that is a fantastic achievement in their first season at Step 4.

A Reds victory would end the season in perfect symmetry – 13 wins, 4 draws and 2 defeats both home and away. A remarkable statistic to end a remarkable season!

If only……….