Match Preview

After Saturday’s loss at Studley, Darlaston Town welcome local side AFC Wulfrunians to the Paycare Stadium for a Boxing Day derby– kick-off 3.00 p.m.

AFC Wulfrunians are currently level on points with Darlaston just outside of the play off places having played three games more than most clubs around them.

The club after a difficult start to the season parted company with long-term manager Craig Gregg in mid-September, shortly afterwards Carl Abbott was appointed manager with his trusted long-term right hand man Paul Tomlinson as his Assistant Manager.

Since Abbott took charge there has been several new signings and AFC’s league position has improved and they have steadily risen up the table to 6th position currently, played nineteen games, won eight, drawn three and lost eight with 27 points, the same as Darlaston, so tomorrow is yet another massive game for Dean Gill’s squad.

AFC’s current form in their last six league games has been three wins, two losses and a draw, as Carl Abbott clearly has now settled his squad and has recruited well.

In their last four league fixtures AFC Wulfrunians welcomed bottom club Bewdley Town to The Prestige Midlands Arena who happen to be Darlaston’s next opponents on Saturday, winning 6-1. Two goals from Daniel Munday, evergreen Lee Chilton also getting on the score sheet along with captain Bradley Maslen-Jones and Dennis Digle, substitute Ryan Bright completed the rout in injury time.

AFC then travelled to local neighbours Shifnal Town to the Acoustafoam Stadium, returning home with a 3-1 win. On Saturday AFC drew with Romulus Finaly Baker getting the all important goal.

Players to look out for Daniel Munday is obviously a threat having scored five goals in five games along with skipper Bradley Masden-Jones with four in ten, the rest of the goals have been shared around the squad.

Darlaston meanwhile, following Saturday’s loss at Studley have picked up three or four important injuries and there will be several late tests for tomorrow’s game as the fixtures start to take their toll.

We hope to see as many Darlaston supporters as possible at the Paycare Stadium, a big crowd is expected because of it being a Boxing Day local derby. In addition, the club have also invited the community and neighbours to listen to The Lavender Girls perform, starting at 5.30 p.m. following the game.

Gates open at 1.00 p.m.

Admission – Adults £7.00, Concessions £5.00, Children Under 10 FREE

Programmes - £2.00 each available at the pay hut.

Bar will open at 1.00 p.m. and remain open all afternoon and will of course be serving its usual hot and cold food.

We trust that everyone has had a wonderful day today and look forward to seeing you at tomorrow’s game.