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MATCH PREVIEW- Saturday 9th August 2025

MATCH PREVIEW- Saturday 9th August 2025

Zander Shayler7 Aug - 17:32

Newly promoted Blackstones are Saturday’s hosts as we look to maintain our unbeaten start.

This Saturday, Eastwood CFC face Blackstones for the first time in our club’s history. The Stamford-based side, who play 116 miles round trip from Coronation Park, earned a surprise promotion last season. Many had expected the Division One play-offs to be a battle between the two Retford clubs, but Blackstones upset the odds—beating Retford United 3-0 in the semi-final before edging past Retford FC 3-2 in a thrilling final.

While Blackstones had a quiet pre-season overall, they did record an eye-catching win over Step 3 side Stamford in their opening friendly, suggesting they’re more than ready for the challenges of the Premier Division.

In league play, Blackstones sit just one point behind Eastwood. They began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Hucknall before falling to a narrow 2-1 defeat against Skegness Town. They bounced back well in the FA Cup with a 2-1 win against AFC Mansfield.

Previous Meetings:
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Eastwood CFC and Blackstones. The two clubs have previously played in separate divisions—Eastwood in the Premier North and Blackstones mostly in Division One of the United Counties League—so their paths have not crossed until now.

Player Watch:
Striker Nathan Rudman, Blackstones’ top scorer last season with 19 goals in 40 appearances, has started this campaign strongly, netting twice in their first two league matches. Between the posts, goalkeeper Max Peverell was a key figure in one of the division’s best defences last season, keeping 13 clean sheets and missing just one match out of 45.

Squad Update:
Martin Ball and Daryll Thomas could have a full squad available for the first time this season. Jermain Hollis is set to return, while defenders Harvey Ridgley and Alfie Flynn are both pushing for a starting spot. Terry Hawkridge is set to make his 28th consecutive appearance, and Phil Watt will look to continue his impressive form, having scored in every league game so far.

We’d love to see you in Stamford this Saturday, getting behind the lads as we aim to keep our unbeaten run going!

Saturday 9th August 2025
United Counties Football League Premier North
Blackstones vs Eastwood CFC
3:00 PM Kick-Off

Blackstones Sports and Social Club, Lincoln Road, Stamford, PE9 1UU

#RedBadgers

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