Nuneaton Borough v. Leigh RMI preview

Nuneaton Borough
By Matt Lawton
February 28 2003

Leigh RMI travel down the M6 to the West Midlands for the second time this season when they face relegation rivals Nuneaton Borough in a hugely vital Nationwide Conference game. RMI will be hoping for a better result than their last visit to the area.

In Leigh's last visit to the West Midlands, former manager Steve Waywell saw the writing was on the wall for him when his charges fell to a shockingly embarrassing 2-1 defeat against lower leaguers Moor Green in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round.

Ultimately, although the FA Cup could've provided much more short term financial goals, survival in the Conference is hugely vital for not just RMI's reputation but their entire survival as a club. Victory in tomorrow's game, to continue RMI's recent good form in the league, would do wonders to help ensure another season of top flight non league football at Hilton Park next season.

RMI will be looking to recover from the loss of star striker Dino Maamria, who left the club shortly before RMI's last outing, a 1-0 victory over Chorley which put Leigh in to the final of the Lancashire FA Marsden Trophy.

RMI manager Mark Patterson has rescinded the loss of Maamria since the semi final victory over Chorley with the signing of Scarborough strike duo Neil Campbell and Keith Scott, who are both in the squad for tomorrow's game.

The only problem facing Patterson in the selection of his squad is the absence of captain Gerry Harrison through suspension.

The hosts have made a host of signings in recent weeks and will have six new signings in their final sixteen for the game at Manor Park.

Boro goalkeeper Chris MacKenzie will miss the game because of a broken finger while star striker Mark McGregor is out for the rest of the season because of a dislocated shoulder.

It is a hugely vital game for both sides, let's hope RMI have more joy than their previous trip to the Midlands.

COME ON LEYTHERS!!