Match Preview

Glossop North End face a challenging away fixture against Squires Gate at The Brian Addison Stadium on Saturday 27 January. This encounter marks the second game of a demanding five-match stretch in just 10 days for Glossop, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing exit from the Macron Cup with a 3-2 defeat to Ashville on Thursday night.

Managed by Richard Brodie, Glossop currently find themselves 20th in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. The team sit 10th in the form table, showing signs of improvement with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last 6 games. Jacques Etia continues to lead the scoring charts for Glossop with an impressive tally of 18 goals, including one against Ashville, closely followed by Harry Freedman with 8. Matty Gillam also found the net against Ashville on his return from injury. Additionally, 18-year-old forward Callum Manley made his starting debut after graduating from the U18s team in August and making several impactful appearances off the bench. Brodie will be looking forward to having Tom Lawless and Bobby Bjork available for selection; both players were cup tied for the game against Ashville.

On the other side, Squires Gate, led by manager Luke Evans, currently occupy the 22nd position in the league. They sit 14th in the form table, having recorded 2 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses in their last 6 outings. Nathan Cliffe stands out as their top scorer with 13 goals in 28 appearances, having joined Squires Gate from AFC Fylde's academy in the summer of 2022.

Reflecting on the recent defeat, Glossop's manager Richard Brodie expressed his disappointment, stating, "The defeat to Ashville was embarrassing and our worst performance since I've been in charge." Brodie highlighted the quick turnaround between games as a positive, acknowledging the need for a swift response. "In less than 48 hours, we play a Squires Gate team who have picked up recently. Let's see what character we have after losing three games in a row. We have got ourselves into this position and have to get ourselves out of it - we have done it before," he added.

As The Hillmen look to redeem themselves, the game against Squires Gate becomes a crucial test of character and resilience for both teams. The Brian Addison Stadium is set to witness an intense battle as Glossop aim to climb the league table and leave behind their recent disappointments.