Match Preview

Match preview by Joshua Birkin

Thackley AFC visit oldest football ground in the world to face up to Hallam FC in a final day top half clash with the final game of the 2023/2024 season for the Dennyboys.

First opened in 1804 Hallam have played at Sandygate since their formation in 1860 and Thackley AFC will be the latest in a long line of visitors this weekend after the fifth time of asking this season. Despite Wednesday's unfortunate loss to Campion AFC sixth remains up for grabs this weekend following Penistone Church's 1-1 draw with Knaresborough Town. A loss could still see the side drop as far as ninth in the table in what would be a harsh reflection of a brilliant season. However, any result this weekend would see the Dennyboys record their highest finish since the 2016/17 season.

A Patrick Sykes hat-trick on Wednesday night was enough for Thackley AFC to lose out in the Bradford derby against Campion AFC, a game in which the visitors comfortably had enough chances to swing a tight game back in their favour. None the less, Thackley AFC's run prior to that of one loss in five games including a 5-0 thrashing of Knaresborough Town has set up what should be a thrilling final day clash.

Hallam FC on the other hand come into the game in 9th place off the back of a big 6-1 derby day win over the already relegated Maltby Main where a Lewis Macaskill hat-trick was enough to claim the bragging rights over their South Yorkshire rivals. Earlier in the season the Sheffield based outfit went on an impressive run in the FA vase as they beat Silsden AFC 3-1 to reach the fifth round. Where they were unfortunately beaten on penalties by Northern Premier Division side Lincoln United. Besides from that, 'The Countrymen' have throughout the season had to contend with several postponements through the winter months, including this fixture, which has led to them struggling to find momentum and needing to play catch-up. However, they have managed to pull themselves into the top-half and could finish as high as the sixth placed spot currently occupied by Penistone Church if results went their way.

There are no new injury concerns to report for the Joint Management side with Green remaining out through suspension following his red card. However, will be able to call upon the likes of Prata, who recently re-signed from Pickering Town and made his first appearance back in a Thackley shirt midweek with a good substitute appearance, on top of Dempsey and Billy who returned to the side in midweek after a brief period of absence.

All support would be much appreciated at Sandygate where entry will be £6 for adults; £4 for concessions and free for any under 12’s accompanied by a full paying adult.