Bradford Park Avenue v FC Halifax Town preview

The Shaymen go into the game on the back of two disappointing results - a 0-0 draw against Boston last Saturday, and a 1-0 defeat at struggling Alfreton on Tuesday.

Halifax’s last goal - Tom Denton’s header at Worcester on February 18 - was three-and-a-half hours of football ago.

Park Avenue boss Mark Bower captained Halifax to promotion to the Conference North in 2011 and was named as manager of the month for the division earlier this week.

They have won three and lost three of their last six games and are just two points outside the relegation zone. Only three teams have scored fewer goals than them in the league. Their former Halifax contingent include FA Trophy winning captain Nicky Wroe, Ryan Toulson and James Knowles. Town midfielder Jake Hibbs is currently on loan there, but will not be allowed to play on Saturday.

Anything other than a win could see Town drop out of the top five, while Park Avenue could drop back into the bottom three if they lose.

Saturday’s National League North fixtures:

Boston United v Altrincham

Brackley Town v Salford City

Bradford Park Avenue v FC Halifax Town

Chorley v AFC Telford United

FC United of Manchester v Tamworth

Gainsborough Trinity v AFC Fylde

Gloucester City v Harrogate Town

Kidderminster Harriers v Alfreton Town

Nuneaton Town v Worcester City

Stalybridge Celtic v Darlington

Stockport County v Curzon Ashton