Blues Match Preview: Scarborough Athletic v Chester FC

A clash with Scarborough Athletic beckons this afternoon for Chester FC at the Seadogs’ temporary home in Bridlington.

Last term saw Calum McIntyre’s side travel to face Scarborough on two occasions, firstly a 3-1 defeat in the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round, before a stunning 4-2 success during the seven-match winning run in early 2025.

Our forward options have been bolstered ahead of the clash, following Friday’s arrival of Zak Emmerson, who joins from FC Halifax Town on a loan deal until the end of the campaign.

THE OPPOSITION

Despite a recent run of just one win in eight outings, the Seadogs remain inside the play-off places with a three-point buffer to eighth-placed Buxton.

Jonathan Greening’s side started the season in fine form, going unbeaten for 11 encounters following a tight opening day defeat at Kidderminster Harriers.

That run included six successive home victories, including an eye-catching 2-1 win over title-chasing AFC Fylde, as well as impressive away wins over Merthyr Town and King’s Lynn Town.

THE GAFFER

Ex-Manchester United midfielder Jonathan Greening is over halfway through his fifth season at the helm of the Seadogs, following his appointment in May 2020.

Scarborough born, the boss led his hometown club to NPL Premier Division play-off success during his opening term, before consolidating in the National League North following promotion.

The opening campaign in the sixth tier was his most successful to date, as he led Athletic to within goal difference of the play-off spots in 2023, only to be narrowly edged out by Gloucester City.

ONE TO WATCH

Forward Rio Allan has featured in every Scarborough league contest so far this term, after leaving eight-tier outfit Hallam to link up with the club in the summer.

The 21-year-old has been a major asset since his move, scoring six times, once against Chester in the 1-1 draw at the Deva back in September.

Capable on either flank, as well as in the number ten role, four of Allan’s goals have been valuable in wins so far this season, with two against Peterborough Sports, as well as during victories over Merthyr Town and Curzon Ashton.

Prior to his spell with Hallam, he featured for Harworth Colliery, Rainworth, and Doncaster City.

LEAGUE FORM GUIDE

Scarborough Athletic | W10 D7 L7 | F34 A31 | Pos: 6th

Last three

• Darlington (H) | L 1-0 | Scorers: None
• Spennymoor Town (A) | D 1-1 | Scorers: Maloney
• Southport (A) | D 1-1 | Scorers: Bennett

Chester FC | W8 D9 L7 | F34 A35 | Pos: 13th

Last three

• AFC Telford United (A) | L 3-1 | Scorers: K. Roberts
• Macclesfield (H) | W 2-0 | Scorers: Mottley-Henry, Leak,
• Worksop Town (H) | L 1-0 | Scorers: None

MATCH DETAILS

Kick off at The Mounting Systems Stadium will be at 15:00.

The postcode for the ground is YO16 7LN.

TICKET DETAILS

The match is segregated and supporters must select the ‘Away’ section when purchasing tickets. Tickets bought in the wrong section of the ground will be voided without a refund.

The fixture is all-ticket for Chester fans and online sales will automatically turn off at midnight prior to this fixture, so please purchase in advance of the day of the game. Due to segregation, there will be no seating available for away supporters.

Visiting supporters must enter the ground via the turnstiles at the Rugby Club side of the car park. There are around 100 free parking spaces at the ground, which is shared with Bridlington Rugby Club. Once full, supporters are advised to utilise the pay and display car park on Moorfield Road, YO16 4LE, which is a 2-3 minute walk from the stadium.