It’s an early kick off in the return to home action for AFC Fylde as we take on high-flyers York City at Mill Farm.

Fylde are in desperate need for three points after suffering back-to-back defeats against Yeovil and Aldershot respectively.

The Coasters fell to a 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture as York’s quality shone through against a ten-man Fylde after Harry Davis was giving his marching orders in the latter stages of the first half.

But after winning last time out on home soil against Forest Green Rovers, Fylde have proved they can go toe-to-toe with the top names in the National League division.

Opposition dugout: Adam Hinshelwood

Opposite from David Longwell this weekend is former Brighton & Hove Albion captain Adam Hinshelwood.

The 40-year-old had a short, yet successful playing career having played 100 times for his boyhood club Brighton, a club which runs through his family.

He joined the seagulls whilst his uncle, Martin Hinshelwood was in charge and made his first team debut in 2002 in a 3-1 victory over Burnley in the Championship.

He was later selected for the England Under 21’s squad before an ACL Injury left his playing career in tatters. Moves to Aldershot and Wycombe Wanders followed but Hinshelwood was ultimately forced to retire due to injury. 

His son, Jack Hinshelwood, now continues the Brighton family tradition as he has rose through the ranks at the American Express Stadium, making starts in the top flight as well as representing England at U18. U19 and U21 level.

Hinshelwood later moved into management, managing in the Sussex County League before building his way up the managerial ladder and into the National League with York.

He joined the Minstermen in late February last season and steered them clear of the drop last campaign, achieving 53 points and a 20^th-placed finish. He has since had them flying at the top end of the National League this campaign.

One to watch: Ollie Pearce

Ollie Pearce signed for York City in the summer of 2024 ready for the start of the 2024/25 season. 

The Strikers career began with Bognor Regis Town scoring 8 goals in his second season before a move to Worthing in 2018. 

Pearce played under Hinshelwood at Worthing FC having a successful spell there scoring 70 goals in 99 appearances. Pearce followed his previous manager to York City to continue working together.

This has been a success as Pearce is currently sat on 26 goals this season. This prolific form has meant that Pearce is perched on top of the goal scoring charts in the National League.

The goal scoring striker will be looking to add to his impressive tally with the aim to end the season as a promotion winner and with his hands on the golden boot.

Tickets: