Two great cities come together this Saturday as the Salford of IRLAM FC takes on our neighbours from across the City, Gorton based Manchester Club ABBEY HEY FC. After last seasons bitterly disappointing exit against Yorkshire side Parkgate FC last season , we face tougher opposition but more well known opposition this coming Saturday as we embark upon our FA Cup adventure.
Our first meeting in the Premier Division last season saw the points shared, a last minute winner by Christian Lawlor giving Irlam the 3 points at the Ambitek, with a reversal on Boxing day as a 75th minute striker by ex Irlam player Connor Martin being enough to seal a 2-1 victory for the home side.
Irlam faired better in last seasons league campaign, and 8th placed finish compared against a 14th place finish for Abbey Hey.
Pre season has seen Abbey Hey with 3 wins and 4 losses and a draw ( stats by nwcfl site), playing against some fairly senior Clubs.
Irlam have had a low key pre season, racking up 4 wins and a draw, although with 5 goals conceded and 27 goals scored, it has certainly been and entertaining one.
With Abbey Hey due to play their last pre season fixture on Tues 1st August, again against strong opposition in Mossley FC, both teams will be more than prepared for this coming weekends fixture.