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.
Chorley
The main rivals of the Coasters, Chorley fell just short of promotion last season losing in the play-off final to Guiseley. The Magpies boast several former Fylde players in their squad including James Dean, Jack Dorney and Harry Winter. Chorley’s home is the historic Victory Park and they are managed by former Blackburn Rovers midfielder Garry Flitcroft. Last season Chorley got the better of us with a 3-1 victory at Kellamergh Park, however Dion Charles’ stunning late goal rescued a point in the return fixture.
Corby Town
Corby were promoted from the Southern League on a dramatic last day of the season in 2014-15. They beat Poole Town away in a title decider and were transferred to the National League North in place of Oxford City who move to the National League South. Their home is Steel Park, a nod to the town’s former steel industry. Corby were relegated from this division back in 2013 after finishing 20th. Spencer Weir Daley is the danger man for Corby, scoring 21 league goals last season.
Curzon Ashton
Curzon Ashton are on a roll recently having secured two successive promotions after beating Ilkeston in the Northern Premier League Play-off Final last season. Until recently they shared their Tameside Stadium home with FC United of Manchester, so Coasters fans already know the ground well. Curzon’s main rivals are Ashton United, who the Coasters beat to reach this level last year, and who were defeat by Curzon in the Northern Premier League Play-off Semi Final last season.
FC United of Manchester
After years of trying the breakaway club secured promotion to the National League North after winning the Northern Premier League last season. FC United boast a large following and amongst the highest average attendances in non league and are a fan owned club. FC United eliminated the Coasters from last season’s FA Trophy and the two clubs have met on several occassions over the years, with a memorable 4-2 win for the Coasters a particular highlight back in 2012.
Gainsborough Trinity
Gainsborough provided tricky opposition last season with a narrow 2-1 win at Kellamergh Park last October and a frustrating 0-0 draw at The Northolme at the end of March. A former football league club, Trinity have beaten the likes of Chelsea during their existence and regularly featured in the latter stages of the FA Cup. The Northolme provides a tough away day but an enjoyable one with the Trinity fans making a good atmosphere. Gainsborough finished last season in 17th place and will be hoping for an improvement this time around.
Make sure to read the next preview article which features Gloucester City, Harrogate Town, Hednesford Town, Lowestoft Town and North Ferriby United.
