Match Preview: South Shields vs Curzon Ashton

South Shields return to home soil on Tuesday as they take on Curzon Ashton in Vanarama National League North (7.45pm kick-off).

The Mariners are level on points with league leaders Tamworth heading into the match at 1st Cloud Arena.

Curzon Ashton are on a run of four straight victories in all competitions, which leaves them seventh in the standings.

Shields' last league outing saw them defeat Spennymoor Town 5-2 last Tuesday.

Julio's thoughts

Mariners manager Julio Arca is looking for a strong response from his side following Saturday's 4-0 defeat at Southport in the Isuzu FA Trophy.

Arca said: “There were no excuses on Saturday and it was a very tough one to take, because as much as we want to do well in the league, we were looking to progress as far as possible in both national cup competitions, and we haven’t done that.

“The least we expect on Tuesday is a massive reaction from the team, and they know that.

“After a game like that, you have to respond well and put in a big performance, to the sort of standard we displayed last Tuesday.”

On the test posed by Curzon Ashton, Arca added: “We need to turn up in abundance because Curzon are a very good side who play football with a high intensity.

“If our performance is as it was against Southport on Saturday, it could be a long night, so we have to make sure the levels are where we expect them to be.

“This group can respond, because they have shown that on a number of occasions not just in my time at the club, but last season too.”

Team news

Shields remain without Joao Gomes, who may face surgery on a knee injury, but hope to welcome back Dillon Morse from illness.

Midfielder Lirak Hasani is also available again after sitting out Saturday’s game due to the terms of his loan arrangement.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at 1st Cloud Arena is at 7.45pm and the turnstiles will open at 5.30pm.

Tickets are available to purchase until 5pm on Tuesday by clicking here, with online tickets priced at £14 for adults, £9 for students and over-65s, £5 for children aged 13 to 16 and £3 for children aged 12 and under. There is an additional £2 charge to sit.

Tickets are available to purchase at the turnstiles on matchday, when standing prices will increase to £15 for adults and £10 for students and over-65s. Cash and card will be accepted.

There is no segregation in place for this fixture.