Scarbrough Athletic have made a blistering start to the season in the National League North after a tough summer both on and off the pitch.
But expectations are high says Boro boss Jonathan Greening.
In April, it was announced that Scarborough’s Flamingo Land Stadium would not pass a FIFA inspection due to the problems found with the pitch itself – placing their season in jeopardy.
The tough task of having to find a new home in a matter of months began, with Bridlington stepping forward and helping their seaside neighbours with volunteers stepping in to help the Seadogs’ temporary home meet National league North standards.
One volunteer, former Bridlington Town Secretary, Chris Bemrose explains that “a lot of work has been done”.
“Additional turnstiles have been added, because of the increased numbers they will be required – but it’s also a necessity two levels up the pyramid with the rules and regulations that are a little bit more stringent.”
Moving 17 miles down the road is not ideal for any club – but it hasn’t blunted the Seadogs’ ambition. Scarborough manager Jonathan Greening has urged his team to focus on “wanting to win every game they play.”
Greening added: “We never go to away games thinking a point’s going to be good” – emphasising his high expectations after his sides first ‘home’ game of the season.
Since that first game at Queensgate season, beating AFC Fylde 2-1, Scarborough have recorded a further five wins taking their Queensgate six wins in as many games.
The Seadogs sit second in the table, three points behind league leaders South Shields who haven’t suffered a defeat this season.
And tomorrow Scarborough travel to South Shields in what must count as a real six-pointer.
After scoring eight goals and conceding just one in their last three home games, South Shields will be going into the game with confidence and Greening has reassure his players that they must “put a performance in on Tuesday – otherwise we’ll get humbled again.”
Scarborough will also be looking positively at this game as they have beaten two out of the three top seven teams they have faced this season, drawing the other match too.
Although the positivity around the team at the moment, there is a possibility that midfielder Alex Wiles may be out with an ankle injury suffered in the defeat to AFC Telford. Greening has been hopeful stating “he’s a tough cookie – if he’s okay he’ll play”
It has been confirmed that Alex Purver’s suspension begins on Saturday, allowing the midfielder to feature in the clash on Tuesday night.
