Tuesday night sees a crunch National League North clash between Kidderminster and Scunthorpe. We have previewed the game and provided our betting prediction.
Kidderminster have taken 13 points from their last five games, a run that has put them back into title contention, although Harriers face an uphill task to dethrone Scunthorpe. Phil Brown's side sit fourth, eight points off the leaders but crucially have a game in hand. A win on Tuesday night will put Kidderminster just five points off Scunthorpe having played a game less.
After a disappointing relegation last season, Kiddie are looking to bounce back at the first time of asking and will have their attack to thank if they achieve this. No team has scored more than their 65 this season. The Harriers are also strong defensively, conceding just 31 goals—only Curzon (27) and Scunthorpe (26) have conceded fewer.
Brown will be frustrated with his side's inability to make Aggborough a fortress, with eight teams taking more points than them in front of their fans. Away from home, however, they boast an impressive record, accumulating 34 points - more than they have at home.
Ashley Hemmings has been Kidderminster's star man this season with 22 goals, including seven in his last four games. Scunthorpe ran out comfortable 2-0 winners when the sides met in August, thanks to goals from Alfie Beestin and Kian Scales.
Despite being predicted to storm to the National League North season last year, Scunthorpe came second behind newcomers Tamworth, before being shocked at home to Boston United on penalties in the playoff semi-final. Andy Butler was appointed in the summer to get this side promoted and he is close to achieving this. Iron have lost just once in their last 21 league games, including a 13-game unbeaten run in which they have conceded just three goals in their last ten games.
Scunthorpe have the best defensive record in the league, while only Buxton and Kidderminster have scored more goals than them, meaning they boast the best goal difference in the league. Butler's side sit two points clear at the top, with a game in hand on Chester. A win would surely put one hand on the title, while a draw still gives them breathing space and keeps the title destiny in their hand.
With Kidderminster (4th) and Chester (2nd) to play in the next two matches, the next four days are crucial in Iron's promotion charge. Whether Butler goes for the win or adopts a 'do not lose' mentality remains to be seen.
After dazzling for Notts County, Callum Roberts was signed by Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen. The winger failed to make much impact in the North-East of Scotland so decided to come down to the North-East of England and sign for sixth-tier Scunthorpe. The 27-year-old has been imperative to their season, scoring 18 goals.
Score Prediction: 1-1
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