Following the Emirates FA Cup exit on Tuesday the Fleet look to bounce back as they make the 524-mile round trip to the north-west and AFC Fylde. It’s the battle of the North v South champions and you might also call it the ‘Demoted Derby’, with both sides sent down via the PPG method in 2020.
Form guide
AFC Fylde sit bottom of the National League having only won two matches all season with 10 defeats to their name. The last time the Coasters won a league match at home was back in August when they secured a late winner against fellow National North promoted club Kidderminster Harriers. Since then, the three points have only flowed with a visit to Southend. The North champions are currently on a three-game losing streak in the league but did enjoy the taste of victory in the Emirates FA Cup against Leek Town. The Fleet will be aiming to repeat the feat of that previous trip north to Rochdale on the opening day to add another away win.
Head-to-head
These two sides have only come head to head five times, all of which have been in the National League. Fylde have come out victorious three times against the Fleet with the remaining two matches ending as draws. The last trip to Mill Farm was a tight affair with the prolific Danny Rowe converting from the spot.
Who’s who?
The 6ft 6 keeper Max Metcalfe is currently on a three-month loan from Middlesbrough following a short spell with Spennymoor Town in the National League North last season where he kept four clean sheets in two months. Metcalfe has been a part of the Middlesbrough academy since the age of 15 and has represented Scotland in the U19 squad.
Highly experienced defender Luke Conlan enters his fourth season at Mill Farm having made 111 appearances. Prior to joining AFC Fylde, Conlan spent four seasons with Morecambe and played 124 times for the EFL club.
Danny Philliskirk is one of Fylde’s longest serving players having signed for them in 2018 following two years at neighbours Blackpool. If he is chosen for selection against the Fleet, he will make his 200th appearance for the Coasters.
Up front is Luke Charman who arrived at Mill Farm in 2022 where he has since made 41 appearances and landed on the scoresheet five times. He has previously spent spells at Rochdale and Darlington. Thw Swiss former Whitehawk, Maidstone and Wrexham striker Gold Omotayo is also likely to feature.
The (interim) manager
AFC Fylde recently sacked manager Adam Murray following a disappointing start to the campaign and have yet to appoint a permanent replacement. Director of football Chris Beech has taken over as caretaker manager and won his first match in charge as a 3-1 win over Leek Town booked a spot in the Emirates FA Cup first round. He previously managed Carlisle United and was assistant at Rochdale.
Tickets
To purchase a matchday ticket online click here and follow the Fleet away!
Prices are:
Adults: £16
Juniors: £8
