Life without Ash Williams begins with a trip to Chester City for County, who have only lost once this year.
Former Chester man Ryan Lowe will be involved for County tomorrow, as will Stephen Gleeson after both signed before the deadline closed on Thursday.
One player who won’t be featuring is of course Ash Williams after he ‘literally ran up the stairs to sign for Swansea’ to beat the transfer window on deadline day.
Good luck to Ash, but lets see how we begin without our leader, and lets see if Gaz Owen will be the man to take over the reins.
Vital Quotes:
Chester winger Richie Partridge: “Although we lost at Peterborough, we`ve showed we`ve put that bad run behind us and we can kick on now.
“Saturday was a great three points, but Monday was a good performance and we can hopefully build on it.”
“That was a special day for me [scoring the winner against County in October], but I`ll take three points this weekend whether I score or someone else scores. That`s the main thing.’
“Stockport are pushing in the play-off places and looking to get promoted, whether it be automatic or through the play-offs.
“There are no easy games left, but we`ve shown we`re a match against anyone and are hopefully getting back to the form that`s seen us doing so well at the start of the season.”
Jim Gannon: [About the Williams move]‘I’ve had to think long and hard about this, but my overall feeling is towards the player. I’ve had long conversations with Ashley about where he wants to go and how we can help him get there. I think he has missed out on a few other opportunities but is more than ready now for the next level.’
Chester Team News:
Former County midfielder Tony Dinning will miss the game due to suspension after being sent off for stamping on a player, and another ex-County man, Kevin Ellsion may make the squad after returning to training this week after injury.
Defender Paul Butler could possibly play after returning from a foot injury. Duo Tony Grant and Chris Holroyd are also out with injury.
Player to watch: Richie Partridge
Partridge scored two stunning goals against County in the 2-1 win at EP in October, ctting in from the left wing.
He is quick, and although small he can beat a full back and get crosses in. He can play on either wing and has a lethal right foot, as we witnessed first hand at Edgeley Park.
County Team News:
Stephen Gleeson goes striaght into the squad after signing again for County from Wolves.
Ryan Lowe also goes straight into the squad, while Adam Proudlock and Adam Griffin will both be sweating over their selection after both were left out of the 0-0 draw with Wycombe.
Matty McNeil and Rob CLare are both still out, and obviously Ash Williams has gone to Swansea.
Player to watch: Ryan Lowe
Dicko has looked knackered these last few weeks, so it will be interesting to see if Jimbo gives him a rest or not. Now Dicko’s got a partner, the workload on him should lessen, so lets see if Lowe can make an impact on his debut.
Match Odds
Chester – 2/1
Draw – 23/10
County – 21/20
Ref Watch:
Next Fixtures:
COUNTY vs DARLINGTON H L2 Sat 5th April
