Holbeach United joint chief Graham Drury insists that he isn’t playing mind games by labelling Deeping Rangers as favourites for tonight’s (Wednesday) Carter’s Park derby (7.45pm).
The South Lincolnshire duo both boast 100 per cent records after two games ahead of the clash, which is usually a cracker of a contest. Last year Rangers prevailed 3-2 in the corresponding fixture, while the season before it was a 3-3 draw.
Drury reckons that continuity could be the key for Tuncay Korkmaz’s visitors, who have held on to the majority of last year’s side.
And with Holbeach still bedding in a number of fresh faces, the former Stamford and Corby Town chief admits he wouldn’t be surprised if his side dropped points.
He said: “Deeping are always a good side at this level and they are a team that know each other well.
“I do see them as favourites for the game. People will think that’s mind games, but it really isn’t – it’s just how it is.
“We’ve got talented players and are capable of beating anyone at this level, but this is our first really tough game against a title rival.”
Holbeach’s other co-boss John Chand also believes his side are in for a tough game – and admits he’d be happy with a draw.
But he’s looking forward to an open game against an attack-minded Deeping side after witnessing Desborough Town ‘park the bus’ in Saturday’s 2-1 triumph.
He added: “A lot of sides will set up to defend against us this season – but Deeping aren’t one of them.
“I’ve always enjoyed games against them down the years. They are usually settled by the odd goal or a moment of magic.
“Deeping will be fighting for honours this season, make no mistake about that.
“Tuncay Korkmaz is a top bloke and a brilliant manager. His teams are always strong.
“It’s the kind of game you’d take a draw in.”
Strikers Lee Dube and Courtney Meade are available after missing Saturday’s win, while Matt Warfield should return after suffering a dead leg in the season opener against Peterborough Northern Star.
Follow @Andrew_Clucas on Twitter for live updates from Carter’s Park.
- Tuesday’s UCL Premier Division results: Harborough Town 1 AFC R & D 2; Long Buckby 0 Desborough 4; Newport Pagnell 1 Oadby Town 1; N Sileby Rangers 0 Kempston Rovers 1; Peterborough NS 5 Boston Town 3 ; Wellingborough Town 1 Cogenhoe Utd 3; Wisbech Town 1 Eynesbury Rovers 1; Yaxley 3 Sleaford Town 1.
- Tonight’s (Wednesday) UCL Premier Division fixtures (7.45pm): Holbeach Utd v Deeping Rangers; Huntington Town v Harrowby United.
