With many teams enjoying a break last week, #MatchweekNineteen returns with a full fixture list including games from all four competitions. We preview all the action from a jam-packed week of fixtures.
Key Matchup
Kidlington v Frome Town
In the South Division, the ‘Key Matchup’ sees Kidlington host Frome Town in a must win game for The Greens.
Kidlington remain in the hunt for the South Division title, being three points behind Rushall Olympic (Amber) at the top of the table, but they also have a game in hand on the #ESPFAWestMidlands side. With Rushall Olympic (Amber) playing in the South Cup this week, this is a must win game for Kidlington if they want to draw level on points with the leaders going into their last game. Anything less than a win would see the title handed to Rushall Olympic (Amber).
Frome Town however will not be ones to just roll over and hand Kidlington the win. The two sides last met in #MatchweekFifteen and Frome handed Kidlington a dent in their title hopes with a 2-2 draw. They are also jostling for their own finishing position in the league and could finish as high as third if results go their way.
Although Kidlington may not be favourites to finish the division on top, there is no way the team is letting their heads drop and give up hope. #ESPFAOxfordshire student and Kidlington academy captain Chandra Limbu said: “We still feel good, and we still believe we can get something out of these two games. We know it's not over till the final matchday and we will push for every result till the season ends.”
North Division
Mickleover v Brighouse Town
Third place Brighouse Town travel to Mickleover in a North Division fixture that could have big implications on the final standings. Brighouse Town have been hit by injuries in recent weeks and have struggled to turn good performances into results of late. Mickleover will be excited to get back on the pitch however having struggled to build momentum in 2022, only playing two division games so far this year.
Witton Albion v Runcorn Linnets
The home side have had an excellent few weeks, winning twice in the past three weeks in the North Cup and also picking up an impressive 6-2 victory over Mickleover. They will need that confidence facing the North Division champions in Runcorn Linnets who won’t be settling for top spot. They have currently won nine games out of nine and would love to finish the season with a perfect record.
North Cup
Ossett United v Belper Town
Ossett United get their campaign underway with their first game in the cup competition and are seeking their first win of 2022 after being involved in some extremely close games of late. Belper Town will be confident in this fixture having beaten Ossett back in January. A win for the visitors would put them in good stead for finishing in the top four places in the cup after already beating Mickleover.
South Cup
Rushall Olympic (Black) v Chesham United
Rushall Olympic (Black) are another team that is kicking off their cup campaign this week and are up against a Chesham United side that they drew with back in October. The Generals drew their only cup game against Yate Town in January so will be hoping to remain unbeaten in their cup run.
Yate Town v Rushall Olympic (Amber)
Rushall Olympic (Amber) take a break from their title run in the South Division and turn their attention to the South Cup. They face Yate Town who currently find themselves at the top of the cup standings after beating Frome Town and drawing against Chesham.