Stretford Paddock returns to action in what feels like a miniature hiatus, after suffering back to back defeats to their two biggest rivals, ending their season in the process. A season that promised so much has had a bitter end, a season without silverware wasn’t one that Howson anticipated but the season, in summary, isn’t all doom and gloom as it’s another season in the books for what is still a very new and ambitious football club.

Paddock now have two games remaining, the first one being against an Abacus Media side with enough quality to be a tough game. However, both teams have little to play for so the concern is the game takes on a bit of a ‘testimonial’ feel, but there is also the opportunity for both sides to take some momentum into the offseason and finish the season strong. Abacus Media are coming off a back to back defeat themselves, including a 6-1 defeat to North Walkden last time out. With the added confidence of beating Abacus Media 4-2 in the reverse fixture and will be looking to repeat that feat on the weekend.

One thing we will once again be looking out for will be for Kieron Molloy on record watch as he is still one goal away from coming Stretford Paddock’s all-time leading goal scorer, a record he will be keen to break before the end of the season. Especially after drawing blank in his two previous games, he will be looking to finally get over the line.

It’s the final home game of the season before Paddock look to play at potential new pastures next season, so Howson will undoubtedly want to see his men finish strong.