Whickham vs Seaham Red Star Preview: Lang Jacks boss Tony Fawcett highlights needs for improvement going into Northern League clash

The Lang Jacks continue their lengthy run of 6 home games in a row when they face Seaham Red Star on Saturday.

Whickham come into the game in 15th place and with one win since August, but with experienced Northern League manager, Tony Fawcett now at the helm following the departure of Mark Convery and Steven Bowey.

Red Star come into the game in 9th place despite a bad start to the season after only one defeat in their last 11 games, which include five victories.

Last time out, Saturday’s visitors had been defeated on penalties in the FA Vase following a goalless stalemate after 90 minutes against Wythenshawe Town but having won on penalties against Boldon CA in the Durham Challenge Cup in the fixture before that.

The new manager who will make his first managerial appearance for the club at the First Mortgage Glebe this weekend is fully aware of their opponent’s current run but remains concentrated on his new side’s performance.

He said: “I’m sure they (Seaham Red Star) are brimming with confidence – however, it is our first game together and it is important that we focus on our own performance. if we can reach good levels then having the players we have will mean we’re close.”

The new boss has also commented on the Glebemen’s needed improvement and preparation for the game.

He said: “Standards and effort across the board need improving, that starts with us as management.”

He continued: “We’ve trained twice this week in preparation and hopefully that should show come game time.”

Despite the bad form of Fawcett’s team, he believes being at home again could certainly be a boost to all of the players.

He said: “I remember coming to play against Whickham when I was at Ryton and it was a great atmosphere, the fans were loud and affected the game, so hopefully we can get the support we need at the moment and help us on the pitch.”

There may be a few absences from the squad due to injury or work commitments but Fawcett is ‘hopeful’ of new signings and even with no Ross Peareth, he believes having him around will be vital.

He said: “Ross is not available again until next week’s game but even having him around will be hugely important as he has been here a long time, he is a player I have admired for a long time and his influence is hugely important.”

Ticket details for the game are down below in the poster, if you have any queries please email whickhamfc1944@gmail.com or message one of our social media pages.

Don’t forget U16’s can also get in for only £1 with a paying adult! (check below the match poster)