Match Preview: South Shields vs Rushall Olympic

South Shields welcome Rushall Olympic to 1st Cloud Arena on Saturday for their final fixture before a two-week break from league action (3pm kick-off).

Fifth-placed Shields have won all four of their home matches so far, and are coming up against a fellow newly-promoted side in Rushall.

The Pics were winless in their opening six matches in Vanarama National League North, but back-to-back victories have lifted them to 18th in the early table.

Julio's thoughts

Shields manager Julio Arca has been pleased with his side's efforts so far this season, but insists there can be no let-up.

He said: “We have started the season well and I think if anyone had said to us before a ball was kicked and after the pre-season we had that we would be where we are after eight games, we would have taken it.

“The key for us is to continue the level of performances we have produced so far, especially at home, and deal with any setbacks which come our way.

“Although we have been strong at home, though, we can’t relax, regardless of who we’re playing against.

“We have to continue to press teams, look after the ball and do all the things which have enabled us to start the season in this manner.”

Shields were beaten 3-1 by league leaders Scunthorpe United on Tuesday and although Arca was disappointed by the result, he took many plus points from the evening.

He added: “We knew it was going to be a difficult match with a different level of intensity, but it was a good test for us to see where we are at, and we took plenty of positives from it.

“The team is in a good place and although everyone is naturally disappointed after a defeat and we know there are things we could have done better, we played some good football.

“The reality is that you won’t win every game, and when you lose, it’s about how you bounce back.”

Team news

Shields remain without forward Luke James, who is recovering from a groin injury.

Arca is hoping to have an otherwise full-strength squad to select from.

Information for supporters

Kick-off at 1st Cloud Arena is at 3pm and the turnstiles will open at 12.30pm.

Tickets are available to purchase until 12pm on Saturday 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.

Following the match, the European Championship qualifier between England and Ukraine will be shown in the bars.