Match Preview

After a second weekend's break in a row, City travel to Gloucester on Tuesday evening in Hellenic League action to face Fairford Town at The SEM Stadium for a 7.45pm kick-off.

The unfortunate postponement of the FA Vase tie with Boston Town at Claines Lane, the first for a frozen pitch and secondly being waterlogged, has given City two rare weekends off in a row heading into a jammed Christmas schedule. Tuesday kicks off a run of 10 games in 29 days across December and January for Cornes' side.

Last midweek City moved back to the top of the Hellenic Premier Division table with a 2-0 away win over Highworth Town, who had previously been unbeaten at home so far this campaign. But City's 100% record away from Claines Lane continued, making it seven wins from seven matches in league action. That run includes conceding only six goals in those seven games, including three clean sheets, averaging over three goals a game.

City head to Fairford who themselves did manage to play on Saturday, drawing 0-0 away to Hereford Lads Club. In their last five league games Fairford have won twice, lost twice, and drawn once, but also recently progressed in the Marsh Challenge Cup with a win during that run. They currently sit in 10th place in the table, but with two games in hand would leapfrog Pershore Town into the play-off places with two wins.

Meanwhile, with Corsham Town having no midweek fixture, City have the opportunity to move five points clear at the top of the table with a win. A win would also guarantee that regardless of result for Corsham against Worcester Raiders on Saturday, City would head into the top of the table clash on 23rd December top of the league.

Connor Gater limped off in the first half for Cornes' side away at Highworth last week with a suspected hamstring injury, making him a real doubt for upcoming fixtures. His and Dinsley's partnership is a foundation that Chris has built his team on this season, and fans will be hoping his injury isn't too severe and to have him back in action ready for the festive schedule.

Reid and Insall's goals secured the win at Highworth and with the injury to Gater, it's likely both will continue for this one, potentially with Reid deployed in the 10 if Cornes opts to play Belmonte in a slightly deeper role. Calvin Dinsley has proved more than capable as the deeper midfield man when needed this season.

Tuesday evening's game will be played at The SEM Stadium, Cinder Lane, Fairford, GL7 4AX. Tickets are priced at £6 for Adults, £4 Concessions, and Under 18's free with a full paying adult. There is free parking available inside and outside the ground, and supporters making the trip should drive up Cinder Lane and then turn left inside the gate, where you will be greeted at the entrance gate.