Cobblers Come to Town

The start of the new season is upon us once again, with Northampton the visitors for tomorrow’s season opener. Both sides are new to the division, with Crewe’s relegation coinciding with Northampton’s promotion. It will be Cobblers’ manager John Gorman’s first game in charge since he took over from Colin Calderwood at the beginning of June.

Will the winning momentum see Northampton off to a flyer or will Crewe dazzle at a lower level?

Vital Quotes:

Crewe boss Dario Gradi: ‘Northampton enjoyed a good season last time around and have become used to winning but this will be a step up for them. They have some experienced players at the club and I’ve known John Gorman for many years. I’m sure he will come in and do things slightly differently but he will be expecting to have another successful season.’

Northampton manager John Gorman: Everybody wants to start off well but we know that Crewe are a good side. No matter what league they are in they keep playing the same way and I’ll be very surprised if they change their tactics. They always try to play good attacking football and I think Saturday’s game will be a good one for the neutral to go and see. You have to be honest and say that they are the favourites going into the game, they have got some quality players and they should be right up there challenging.’

Crewe Team News:

Crewe are without captain Neil Cox for tomorrow’s game, who is ruled out with a hamstring injury. Cox will have to wait for his debut, but his misfortune means Darran Kempson will debut in Cox’s place. Kempson will be partnered at the back by Julien Baudet, another new signing, who will hope to make a good impression on his first appearance for the club. Full back Jon Otsembor will take the armband in Cox’s absence.

Midfielder Lee Bell is out with a foot injury, though Tony Grant is expected to recover from a groin strain in time. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ben Williams should play, despite sustaining a shoulder injury during the pre-season.

Crewe line-up: Williams, Otsemobor, Kempson, Baudet, Billy Jones, Lowe, Gary Roberts, Grant, Vaughan, Rodgers, Higdon.

Player to watch: David Vaughan

The Welsh international will be a hugely important player for Crewe this season. With Kenny Lunt gone, Vaughan is our main creative outlet this season, so a good performance from the 22-year old is vital if Crewe are to begin the season well.

Northampton Team News:

Northampton are likely to hand debuts to three new players. Andy Holt is expected to line up at left back, with Sam Aiston ahead of him on the wing. Defender Joe Burnell will be the other debutant. New signing James Quinn will have to settle for a place on the bench, with Andy Kirk and Scott McGleish likely to start the game up-front.

Midfielder David Hunt and defender Fred Murray are the Cobblers only absentees.

Player to watch: Sam Aiston

The tricky winger has various incentives to impress for his new team tomorrow. Not only will it be his debut, but he will be looking to put one over on his good friends and former team-mates Darren Moss and Luke Rodgers.

Match Facts & Stats

Recent Meetings:
02/03 Crewe 3-3 Northampton
02/03 Northampton 1-1 Crewe
93/94 Northampton 2-2 Crewe
93/94 Crewe 3-2 Northampton

Of the 54 meetings between the sides, Northampton have won 23, Crewe have won 20 and 11 ended as draws.

Ref Watch:

Mike Pike – Cumbria

Match Prediction:

Crewe 2-2 Northampton

Next Fixtures:

Tues 8th August: Doncaster v Crewe
Sat 12th August: Scunthorpe v Crewe
Sat 19th August: Crewe v Bradford