By Ethan Hoijord
Vauxhall Motors return to action on Good Friday as Kidsgrove Athletic visit the VanEupen Arena.
The Motormen’s good run of form, which brought a 3-1 win against Stalybridge Celtic and a one-all draw at Hednesford Town, was brought to an end last time out as they suffered a cruel, late blow at Avro.
It was a spirited Vauxhall performance in Oldham but the hosts continued their attacking momentum into the dying moments as James Dwyer headed in, from a corner, in the 95th minute.
The experienced Kevin Ellison started the game on the bench and came on for the last thirty minutes. The 45-year-old will again be available, alongside fellow new recruit Toby Jones.
16th placed Kidsgrove Athletic will be looking to get back to winning ways, following a defeat against Bootle.
All support, as always, is greatly appreciated thus we look forward to seeing you in The Port!
Kidsgrove Athletic FC Factfile:
Founded: In 1952 by youngsters who were unhappy with local side Kidsgrove United as they were importing players from further afield.
Nickname: The Grove.
Playing colours: Blue (H) Yellow (A).
Ground: The Autonet Stadium. The 2,000 capacity venue is also shared with Port Vale FC Women’s first team.
Manager: Antony Malbon is the First Team Interim Manager following the departure of Scott Dundass earlier this week, after a 2-year spell in charge of the club.
Top goalscorer: Aaron Bott. The 27-year-old forward has netted ten goals in 23 outings this season.
This season: Kidsgrove are positioned 16th in the NPL Division One West Table after claiming 36 points, one more than Vauxhall, in 32 games.
Current form: Kidsgrove have the second worst current record in the division, as they have only picked up two points in their last six games.
Last time we met: Kidsgrove beat Vauxhall 2-1 in Staffordshire, in late September. Kieran Knapper and Nathan Morley put the hosts 2-0 up inside the first 50 minutes before Motors striker Lewis Buckley looked to spark a comeback with a 71st minute goal, in front of the 188 in attendance.
Honours: Kidsgrove were promoted to the Northern Premier League Division One in 2002, the five-time Staffordshire Senior Cup Winners have competed in various different regions at this level but most recently joined the West Division in 2021.