As known from:
- Our Team
- How We Rate
- Responsible Gambling
- Contact Us
- Writers Wanted
- Content Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
- Matthew O'Regan Author Profile
We have a full slate of Non-League football to kick off the new year and Matthew O'Regan has his four best bets.
Eastleigh kick off the New Year with the visit of table-toppers Barnet.
The Spitfires sit 11th, just six points off the playoffs after six league games unbeaten. Kelvin Davis' side have been strong going forward, scoring in every single home game. They also rank second behind Tamworth for home games that have seen BTTS with both teams scoring in 9/11 games at The Silverlake Stadium.
Barnet went into 2025 as the National League leader, although York, Forest Green and Oldham all have the chance to leapfrog the Bees should they win their game(s) in hand. Dean Brennan's side have been electric offensively, scoring a league-high 40 goals. However, the 44-year-old will be disappointed with his side's defensive fragility, with his side conceding 29 goals.
Away from home, Barnet have struggled picking up just 16 points in 11 games, with these games averaging 3.36 goals. They have scored in all bar three games this season, with BTTS landing in 7/11 away. With Barnet's away woes, the hosts will look to continue their impressive run of form in an entertaining clash.
Prediction: Both Teams To Score and Over 2.5 goals @1.90
Ilkeston Town are still unbeaten in the Northern Premier League after a last-minute winner over Derbyshire rivals Mickelover in the last game before Christmas. Ian Deakin's side have won their last five home games as they continue their charge for the playoffs.
Nottingham-based side Basford United are the visitors to the New Manor Ground on New Year's Day. The Lions have struggled in recent weeks, losing their last five in the league, including a disappointing 4-1 loss to fellow strugglers Leek in their last away game.
Luke Potter's side have not been happy travellers, picking up just ten points on the road, and conceding 22 goals. They've also lost their five away games. In what should be a frantic derby-day clash, expect the hosts to sweep their lowly visitors away with ease.
Prediction: Ilkeston Town -0.5, -1.0 Asian Handicap @ 1.850
Under the experienced guise of Phil Brown, Kidderminster are looking serious title contenders, sitting one point off leaders Scunthorpe with two games in hand.
The Harriers have won the last four games in the league without conceding, as well as four straight home games. Facing struggling Rushall Olympic they will fancy their chances of taking yet another comfortable win.
Olympic are 12 points from safety already and look destined for the drop. They have now lost seven games in a row in all competitions, including a 7-0 loss at South Shields. Richard Sneeks side have the worst away record in the league, losing 10 of their 11 away games.
Rushall to be losing at half-time and full-time and to concede two or more has won in 9/11 away games.
Prediction: Kidderminster over 1 goals & HT\FT Kidderminster @1.95
While Walton and Hersham were shown a controversial red card after just five minutes, Merthyr showed their quality to secure a 5-2 victory. This made it six wins in a row and 12 from 13 for the Martyrs. At home, Paul Michael's side have been relentless, gaining 28 points from ten home games, scoring 36 goals and conceding just six in the process.
Gloucester have started the season well in third place, but still sit ten points adrift of the league leaders Merthyr. Mike Cook's side have struggled away from home in recent weeks, failing to win in their last four away games, including losing 6-0 to struggles Plymouth Parkway.
They face their toughest away trip of the season yet, and may struggle to leave Wales with a result.
Prediction: Merthyr Town to win @1.80
Users must be 18+. If you are having trouble with gambling then help and advice can be found at begambleaware.org. Please Play Responsibly.
