It's fourth against fifth in the Anglian Combination Premier Division this weekend as we prepare to make the short trip down the A140 to face Long Stratton in what will be our final away fixture of 2017. It's been a fantastic year for the first team but I will save the nostalgia for next week's preview.
Instead I will take time to reflect on last weekend's emphatic 7-0 victory over Stalham Town which saw us record our biggest winning margin during the Self/Thompson tenure. Those of you that have been watching every week will know that it was the kind of ruthless performance that had been brewing all season and it was pleasing to see both of our new signings slotting into the team seamlessly, especially Jack Guyton who capped a memorable debut by scoring an impressive hat-trick. Perhaps we can now forgive him for the two he scored against us earlier in the season for Hellesdon!
There was also a milestone for one half of our managerial duo as Thommo notched his 20th goal for the club. Selfy doesn't have to wait too long for a milestone of his own as tomorrow's game will mark his 50th appearance in a Wanderers shirt.
Team News
Joel Potter returns to the matchday squad in place of Danny Bland but the game proved a little too soon for Jamie George to return from injury. We are hoping to have him back available soon.
Our Opponents
Long Stratton have been enjoying a good start to the season and are well positioned as they look to improve on last season's 11th placed finish. Prior to the last two games (Defeats to Harleston Town and Bradenham Wanderers), they were on a seven game winning streak so we are expecting a tough game as they look to avoid a third defeat on the bounce.
James Bemrose leads the way in terms of goals with 7 in 15 but 11 others have also opened their accounts for the season so goals can be found throughout the side and the likes of Matthew Nichols and Charlie Deakin should not be ignored.
Last Season
Home | Mulbarton Wanderers 2-0 Long Stratton
Goals: Jamie Smith, Ben Thompson)
Away | Long Stratton 1-5 Mulbarton Wanderers
Goals: Jamie Smith, Ben Thompson, Joel Potter, Mark Sutcliffe, Damon Cooper
Head to Head
Wanderers Wins - 3
Draws - 1
Long Stratton Wins - 0
Premier Division Fixtures
Blofield United v Hellesdon
Harleston Town v Bradenham Wanderers
Mattishall v Acle United
Norwich CEYMS v Wroxham Reserves
Reepham Town v Caister
Stalham Town v Beccles Town
Waveney v St Andrews
Don't miss out on our last away day of the year but as always, If you are unable to join us or are watching the reserves at Mulberry Park then make sure you follow us on Twitter (@MulbartonFC) for all the live updates.
Come on Mulbarton!