HERE is the lowdown on five more opponents for AFC Fylde in 2015/16 as compiled by Jack Connor from the AFC Fylde media team.
Gloucester City
The Tigers were the final opponents for the Coasters last season which ended in a memorable 6-4 win. Gloucester play at Cheltenham Town’s Whaddon Road ground after their former home was damaged after flooding. Finishing in 14th place last season, the Tigers had a strong end to their campaign which for a long time looked like it could end in a relegation dogfight.
Harrogate Town
Harrogate were one of only two sides to win at Kellamergh Park in the league last season but couldn’t mount a challenge for promotion, spending almost all of the season in mid table eventually finishing 15th after losing their last two games. Harrogate play at the CNG Stadium, which has a capacity of 3,800. Town suffered a big blow in the summer losing top scorer James Walshaw to Yorkshire rivals Bradford Park Avenue.
Hednesford Town
A strong and technically gifted team, Hednesford looked to be set for a play-off place come the end of the last season but a poor run in condemned them to a disappointing 8th place finish. Their Keys Park home is a tough ground to win at as the Coasters found going down 2-0 in early March and no side will relish a trip to the Staffordshire side next season. The Pitmen have prepared early for this season and have made several new signings as they bid for promotion to the Conference Premier for the first time in nearly 15 years.
Lowestoft Town
Lowestoft’s late fightback at home to Barrow on the final day of last season almost handed the league title to the Coasters and Crown Meadow is a tough ground to visit due to the vocal East Anglian crowd. The Trawlerboys could only manage a 16th placed finish last season and will be hoping to improve on that in their second season as this level. Lowestoft’s squad is strong and features several ex professionals from Football League sides Norwich City and Ipswich Town.
North Ferriby United
The Villagers upset the odds last season to win the FA Trophy at Wembley but their future was in doubt after several off field issues. Thankfully Ferriby remained in the division and have kept most of their playing squad and will be a tricky test for any side next season. The Coasters fought out two close games with North Ferriby last season, winning 1-0 at Kellamergh Park and drawing 1-1 at Grange Lane in November.
Make sure to read the final article next week featuring Nuneaton Town, Solihull Moors, Stalybridge Celtic, Stockport County, Tamworth and Worcester City.
