Hammers v Stoke Meeting Preview

Lakeside boss Kelvin Tatum knows nothing less than a win will do in their final home fixture of the regular season against Stoke on Sunday (3pm).

The Vortex Hammers are still right in the mix for a play-off place in their first Travel Plus National League season.

But they desperately need three more points against the Potters, which would move them up to third in the table.

They will be firm favourites with Stoke struggling towards the bottom of the table – but Tatum knows they must be wary to avoid any slip-ups.

“We need to win, it’s as simple as that,” Tatum said.

“We’re right in contention for the play-offs, but we need three more points on Sunday to keep our chances alive.

“We’ve been excellent at home this season, but we’ll need to concentrate and make sure we don’t slip up now.

“We’ve got a couple of good guests in again, and we’ll hopefully get the result we need to keep on course for the top four.”

The Hammers have drafted in Luke Bowen to guest for Zach Wajtknecht, whilst Mattie Bates steps in for Alfie Bowtell, who is riding for Championship side Newcastle.

LAKESIDE:

Luke Bowen, Nick Laurence, Paul Hurry, Mattie Bates, Ben Morley, Jamie Couzins, Connor Locke.

STOKE:

Mitchell Davey, Paul Burnett, Tony Atkin, Luke Priest, Lee Dicken, Ryan Terry-Daley, Shaun Tedham

Admission (pay at gate – cash or cards – Gates open 1pm)

Adults: £13
Concessions: £11 * (concessions cover Male OAP’s 65 and over, female OAP’s 65 and over, Disabled, Unemployed, 17 and 18 year olds in full education and Students over 18)
7 to 16 year olds inclusive: £1
6 year olds and under: Free
Programme: £2
(*proof of entitlement may be requested.)

Image: Luke Bowen & Ben Morley – Credit Anti-clockwise Photography