Spalding United Aims for Strong Home Start Against Alfreton Town

Manager Jimmy Dean is optimistic that his team, Spalding United, can translate their impressive away performance into a strong showing at home this Saturday. The Tulips are set to host Alfreton Town in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup, marking their first match at the newly revamped Sir Halley Stewart ground since the completion of renovations.

Spalding has played 14 away matches this season, achieving an average of two points per game, which Dean attributes to the squad’s resilience despite numerous challenges. “We’ve had difficult fixtures against teams like Real Bedford, Harborough, and Kettering,” he stated. The team is currently navigating a phase of transition, having lost a significant number of key players, including a full back four and two goalkeepers, while Curtis Thompson has yet to make his season debut.

The Tulips will face an Alfreton side that has struggled in the league above, prompting the recent departure of their manager, Billy Heath. Dean acknowledges the potential for a tough match ahead, especially given Alfreton’s recent performance, which included a commendable draw against King’s Lynn under new management. “It will be an exceptionally difficult fixture,” he noted.

Last season, the two teams met in the same round, with Alfreton emerging victorious in a penalty shootout during a replay. Reflecting on that encounter, Dean remarked, “We had to crowd the box last season and try to nick one when we could, which suited how we had to play against them at that moment. We are light years ahead of where we were then, so it will be a different game.”

Despite the pressure to perform at home, the manager is keen to leverage the support of their fans. “We want to be well supported because we want fans to keep coming back. The fans have been great, and we need to keep building this club as we move forward,” he said. He also expressed gratitude toward the club’s volunteers, emphasizing the importance of delivering strong performances on the pitch as a way to thank them.

In terms of player updates, the Tulips have introduced Paul Jones as their new goalkeeper, bringing experience to the squad after replacing Aaron Chapman. Dean praised Jones’s professionalism and quality, stating, “He’s doing a good job for us.” Additionally, Spalding has bolstered its attacking options with the signing of Alex Roberts, a former Wales Under-21 international who previously played for Norwich City.

“Alex is a young lad with loads of potential. He’s quick, can beat a player one-on-one, and can finish,” Dean noted. Roberts recently showcased his talent while on dual registration with Grantham Town, where he scored and was named man of the match in their League Cup win over Clifton All Whites.

As Spalding United prepares for their homecoming, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting encounter against Alfreton Town. With the support of their fans and a squad determined to build on their recent successes, the Tulips aim for a decisive victory in this crucial FA Cup clash.