Match Preview

A preview into Saturday’s opening fixture against Spalding United, by Jack Blenkiron:

The Central Ground hosts the much-awaited opening fixture of the Northern Premier League Division One East, as Neil Tooth’s men aim to replicate and improve on the strong 18/19 campaign, which fell at the final hurdle. The loss of key senior players, including Max McNulty, who we wish the best of luck in The States, has resulted in multiple arrivals through the door, many who have shone throughout preseason. In addition to the new arrivals, we have also seen the integration of our academy players, most notably Joel Powney, whose fantastic long-range free kick in a 4-3 victory against Paget Rangers in July was a mere preview of what the creative midfielder is capable of.

An insight on The Tulips…

Spalding United, managed by Matt Easton, welcome The Royals to their new division in the first fixture of the campaign, as The Tulips narrowly avoided relegation in the previous campaign, finishing 18th in the 20-team league, six points above safety. An arguably disappointing campaign only accumulated six wins, conceding 67 goals. Matt Easton, who will lead the Tulips into the upcoming season, is a highly regarded coach, gaining useful experience with The FA’s U16 England squad, assisting in the development of youngsters including Liverpool’s Bobby Duncan, Arsenal’s Tyreece John-Jules and Sunderland’s Bali Mumba, to name a few. Easton was elevated from a coach the role of first-team manager of Spalding, after the departure of manager Chris Rawlinson in September 2018.

Words from the manager himself...

Neil Tooth stated that he is “really looking forward to getting going, with real games”, and that he is “excited to see the new squad in action”.
Regarding our opponents, Tooth believes that “Spalding will pose a stern test, as they have recruited well over the summer”.

Team News…

Spalding United retained only ten players from the previous campaign, undergoing a host of changes to the first team, similarly to us Royals. All players are available to Neil Tooth for his selection.

Match information…

Kick Off is at 3:00 at The Central Ground. Tickets are priced at £10 for adults, concessions £7 and U18’s are £1, we hope to see you cheer on the Royals at the beginning of the campaign!