Match Preview: Buxton v Chester FC

Chester FC are back in Enterprise National League North action this afternoon with a trip to Buxton.

Calum McIntyre’s side earned a late point in midweek against Marine at the Deva Stadium, thanks to a stoppage-time header from James Jones, after George Newell had put the visitors in front on the stroke of half-time.

Our most recent trip to the Silverlands ended in an entertaining 4-2 success for the Seals back in January, courtesy of a brace from Charlie Caton, a close-range finish from Harrison Burke, and a second-half stunner from Jack Bainbridge.

The Opposition

Buxton have pushed up the table over recent weeks following an inconsistent start to their National League North campaign, and now find themselves in 10th, just one point behind the play-off spots.

Defeat to Southport on Tuesday night saw the end of a six-match unbeaten run in the league, with four FA Cup victories also coming in that period.

In the league, the streak garnered 16 points out of a possible 18, and included wins over Darlington, Chorley, and Alfreton Town.

The loss in midweek was the Bucks’ first since a 2-1 defeat on the road at Scarborough Athletic in early September.

The Gaffer

John McGrath called time on an eight-year association with Mickleover in the summer of 2024 to move to Buxton, as the club made the switch from part-time to full-time status.

His first campaign at the Silverlands resulted in a play-off berth, before defeat in the Eliminator at the Deva back in April as the Blues ran out 2-1 winners.

The Irishman’s most notable spell as a player came with Burton Albion, where he made over 200 appearances and played a major role in the club’s promotion to the Football League in 2009.

The 45-year-old also featured for Aston Villa, Doncaster Rovers, Kidderminster Harriers, and Tamworth.

One To Watch

Tai Sodje has made a big impact in Derbyshire after his move from Manchester City over the summer, a club at which he initially signed for in 2015 from Sheffield United.

The 22-year-old has netted on seven occasions during his first 11 league outings for the Bucks, a record that includes an impressive brace that earned a point against South Shields, who sit top of the division.

The forward has continued to score at crucial times this season, having secured all three points with the winning goal in victories over Oxford City and Darlington.

League Form Guide

Buxton | W7 D2 L5 | F27 A20 | Pos: 10th

Last three

Peterborough Sports (A) | W 2-1 | Scorers: Stephenson, Kirby

Alfreton Town (H) | W 6-0 | Scorers: Greaves, Burton x2, Brennan, Sodje, McLean

Southport (H) | L 2-1 | Scorers: Brennan

Chester FC | W3 D7 L4 | F18 A23 | Pos: 18th

Last three

Alfreton Town (A) | W 2-0 | Scorers: Peers x2

Bedford Town (H) | L 2-1 | Scorers: Zanzala

Marine (H) | D 1-1 | Scorers: J. Jones

MATCH DETAILS

Kick off at the Silverlands will be at 15:00.

The postcode for the ground is SK17 6QH.

TICKET DETAILS

Chester FC supporters can pay at the gate, but are strongly advised to purchase in advance to ease congestion on the day.

Away fans cannot spectate from the Railway End Stand.