Match Preview

For the first time in twelve years, Carlton Town will contest a promotion play-off semi final. Last day survivors last season, the Millers 23/24 season so far has been one of progress and achievement. Good runs in the FA Cup and Trophy kicked off the campaign and a much changed squad has provided the supporters with some great performances to this point. Carlton have never reached Step 3, this is uncharted territory but the visitors cannot get ahead of themselves. The task ahead is monumental.
Stockton are familiar with the play-offs. This is the third campaign in consecutive seasons that has the Anchors challenging for an upward move. Beaten by Marske United and Long Eaton United in the last two years, Stockton will be hoping this is third time lucky.
The Anchors’ home form is superb with fourteen wins and only one loss all season. That loss was against Carlton though and the visitors have travelled well this year collecting eleven wins.
The recent form guide does little to separate the sides with both sides winning three of the last six. Stockton though have won their last two matches including a final day drubbing of Belper so will be full of confidence. Carlton lost to Brighouse on the last day of the regular season and will start this game as underdogs but backed by healthy travelling support and the very nature of knock out football means fine margins will likely decide the outcome.