Preview: Weston-super-Mare

A look ahead to tomorrow’s match against Weston-super-Mare at Arbour Park.

02/02/24


Next up for Slough Town is a return to Arbour Park, where Scott Davies’ men will aim to make it 16 games unbeaten at home, writes Freddie Gatrell.

The team standing in the Rebels’ way is Weston-super-Mare, who currently reside in 14th place and one point behind Slough in the Vanarama National League South table. The Seagulls currently have a points tally of 39 points after 29 games played this campaign, made up of 11 wins, six draws and 12 losses, a record almost identical to Scott Davies’ side, albeit with one game in hand on the Rebels - making Saturday’s clash a must-win for both sides.

Over the Seagulls’ most recent five matches, they have won twice, lost twice and drawn in their most recent clash against Chelmsford City on Monday evening, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Jacob Cane, salvaging an important point.

With Slough’s recent form, it is evident that both sides will be hungry to return to winning ways and undoubtedly the men from North Somerset face a tough task visiting Arbour Park.

Weston-super-Mare's manager, Scott Bartlett has a rich football history that began in AFC Bournemouth's academy. After stints with Cirencester Town, Salisbury City and Bath City he hung up his boots in 2011 due to a knee injury. Transitioning into coaching, he elevated Forest Green Rovers’ Academy to 'category three.' Bartlett's managerial journey includes roles at Forest Green Rovers before eventually becoming the permanent manager at Weston in 2016. His strategic reshaping ensured National League South safety, displaying prowess in the transfer market, before he left again to join Forest Green Rovers for a second time. Re-joining the Seagulls in 2019, Bartlett embarked on a three-year deal, bringing his extensive experience to their Southern League, Premier Division South campaign which ended with his side being promoted last season.

This season his side sit comfortably in mid-table, with the prospect of play-off football not completely out of the question. Bartlett will be aiming to move his side closer to the top seven in their remaining games.

Bartlett’s side is known for being free-scoring in the past, and this season goals are being provided by Reuben Reid. Reid is a seasoned professional, having played for numerous EFL clubs throughout his 17-year playing career such as Yeovil Town, Brentford, Plymouth Argyle and West Bromwich Albion to name a few. Having netted nine goals this season, the 35-year old is the Seagulls’ top scorer this campaign and will be a key man for Bartlett’s side during this Saturday’s clash.

Kick-off is at 3pm this Saturday at Arbour Park. Live commentary is available courtesy of Rebels Radio, as well as live social media updates across our club social media channels.

Rebels

Slough Town FC is not responsible for content produced on external websites | Copyright Slough Town FC 2024