Match Preview

Whitby Town boss Nathan Haslam says he anticipating a “really tough game” when Morpeth Town arrive at the Towbar Express Stadium @ The Turnbull Ground on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

The Seasiders are in Emirates FA Cup Third Qualifying Round action following their 4-2 Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division victory over local rivals Marske United on Tuesday night, with Craig Lynch’s Highwaymen the opposition as Town look to continue their cup journey.

And at his pre-match media briefing, Haslam spoke highly of the job Lynch has done with Morpeth, who have claimed two big scalps in the competition so far this season, with home wins over Radcliffe and Southport.

Here are some of the topics up for discussion with Haslam this week:

On Morpeth and the challenge they pose for the Seasiders…

“We both know each other very, very well. It’s going to be a tough game against a side in good form and with a lot of experience. But they’ll be looking at us in exactly the same way as we’ve had a good start as well.

“It’s going to be a real good cup game, no doubts about that. It’s an opportunity for someone to advance and get a crack at getting into that First Round Proper. It would be nice for Whitby to do that for the first time in 20 years, that’s the objective.”

On Coleby Shepherd’s injury, which forced him off in Tuesday night’s win over Marske United…

“We need to let his injury settle down for a little bit. He’s made of steel, he’s not missed a game this season.

“If come Saturday he’s not ready, you know it’s a proper injury. If he’s about 80 percent fit, he’ll still declare himself fit to play.

“We want to give it as much time as possible so we’ll make the call on Saturday.”

On the supporters playing their part on Saturday afternoon…

“It makes a massive difference when there’s an atmosphere down at the Turnbull, it’s there for all to see. They were loud on proud on Tuesday night which was great.

“We’ve got another massive game against Morpeth in the FA Cup and it would be great if the crowd can come out and support us."