Droylsden vs. Leigh RMI preview

By Matt Lawton
February 1 2007

When in the midst of a poor run of results, a trip to the league leaders in your next game isn't exactly what could be defined as your ideal situation, but that is the task that RMI face when they make the short trip to Droylsden on Saturday afternoon.

Although the postponement of Tuesday's scheduled home game with Blyth Spartans has afforded a little more preparation time than previously anticipated for Stuart Humphreys and his side, Saturday's challenge is certainly one of the biggest they've faced so far this season when they face the side that is currently four points clear of the chasing pack at the top of the Conference North.

The two sides last met in November when a second half Dan Owen goal gave RMI a thoroughly deserved point in a four goal thriller at Hilton Park, although last season's trip to Tameside was certainly one to forget as they came away from the Butchers Arms with only a comprehensive 4-1 defeat to show for their efforts.

The home side will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 1-0 defeat at promotion rivals Kettering that meant the Bloods missed a big chance to extend their lead at the top, although they still remain in the driving seat as the season edges towards it's final third.

RMI boss Stuart Humphreys is boosted with the return from suspension of veteran centre half Mark Maddox after he missed the defeat at Alfreton following his sending off in the FA Trophy defeat at Stevenage, while Owen Roberts looks set to retain a spot in the side after he impressed on his debut last weekend soon after joining the club from Unibond League side Clitheroe.

Even a point from Saturday's game could prove to be vital in the fight against relegation, especially as RMI have a relatively quick turnaround to contend with, with a trip to basement side Lancaster City coming up on Tuesday evening.