A return to The MKM Ground for Sleaford beckons on Saturday, as The Greens look to extend their unbeaten run against third from bottom Gresley Rovers.

Much like Sleaford, The Moatmen seem to be getting the right results at the right time, earning an impressive 7 points from the last 3 matches in a run that has seen big results in the context of the season. Confidence will therefore be high for the visitors, especially after the 5-1 demolition of Skegness town in the last fixture, as well as drawing 1-1 away at 3rd placed Bourne Town before that. Recent form for both sides suggests that the game has potential to be a thriller in the battle for survival.

Up until recently, goals have been hard to come by for the opponents, particularly after top scorer Jamie Sleigh (11 goals in 27 games) departed to Heanor Town in January. This factor amongst others perhaps outlines the reasons to why Rovers have had such a torrid 2025, with the recent form having followed 8 consecutive defeats since the turn of the new year - placing Gresley at threat of back-to-back relegations. The team from Derbyshire also have one of the leakiest defences in the division; 75 goals shipped in 35 games hints that Sleaford have every opportunity to add to the 18th placed outfit’s poor defensive statistics.

The match will prove to be a huge game for all involved, something that Sleaford manager Matt Evans appreciates; “Saturday is massive, again” he admits, “Gresley must win to keep their survival hopes alive and we must do all we can to increase the gap between ourselves and a relegation rival”. The boss also expresses that the right mindset is vital; “We've also got to keep level-headed about it. The occasion must not prevent us from doing what we do best but that is easier said than done” he reveals, “I imagine both teams will be nervous, and mistakes will occur, so it’s essential that we get behind our team and encourage them”.

Evans also believes that last week’s showing at Melton can be something to build on; “We left Melton respecting an away point but disappointed that we didn’t get all 3” he concedes, “we need to have the same level of desire to win but must get more shots away and test the opposition goalkeeper”. Despite the disappointment, Evans believes in his players; “If the application, energy and work rate is good, we can match anyone, however we must be more clinical if we are to win more games and that means making the most of every goal scoring opportunity.” “Our fans deserve to see more green goals. We will keep pushing for them to come!”

Finally, Matt is pleased about the atmosphere of the dressing room, something he believes is key; “There have been a number of successes this year, some will seem more important than others depending upon your own values” he suggests, “I'm personally delighted with how new leaders have emerged and the feel-good factor they have brought to the dressing room.” “ When times are tough, you need people that want to make a difference - the celebrations after the Ashby Ivanhoe game highlighted that.”

Words by Oliver Burton