By Billy Wilkinson
Fleetwood welcome struggling Shrewsbury to Highbury Stadium as The Trawlermen continue their play-off push.
With four wins from their last seven games, Fleetwood currently lie two points outside of the play-off spots.
The Cod Army’s play-off push has been backed by the striking partnership of David Ball and Chris Long, with ten goals between them. Ashley Hunter has played the role of super sub this season, scoring three of his five goals this season after coming on as a substitute.
ON THIS DAY: In 18 matches played over the span of 107 years, there had never been a goalless encounter on this day until 2008 #salop
— Shrewsbury Town FC (@shrewsweb) November 22, 2016
It’s a different story for Shrewsbury, who are five points adrift of safety, with one win in their last ten games.
Paul Hurst will be taking charge of his second Shrewsbury game and will be looking to correct their defensive errors. Shrewsbury have the joint-second worst defensive record in League One this season, leaking 31 goals in 18 eighteen games.
Fleetwood’s goalkeeper Alex Cairns started in goal for their 2-1 victory over Chestfield and is expected to be preferred to regular starter Chris Neal.
Manager Uwe Rosler said the change was a ‘tactical one’ regarding Fleetwood’s playstyle but now he has ‘fair competition’ between ‘two very good goalkeepers’.
🎥COD ARMY PLAYER: @AlexCairns30 on today's win against Chesterfield.
Full video online now –> https://t.co/7sGIkXD7e3 pic.twitter.com/8KVwX9bcLd— Fleetwood Town FC (@ftfc) November 19, 2016
Midfielder Jimmy Ryan will face a late fitness test, however George Glendon impressed in his place against Chesterfield, with his manager singing his praises.
“He is now playing to his strength which is his qualities on the ball, but he also understands what is needed in League One football.”
Young striker Chris Long is still serving a three match ban, and with him averaging a goal every three games this season, Fleetwood will miss his finishing ability. Martyn Woolford will be out long term with a knee injury.
Shrewsbury’s midfielder Jim O’Brien will not be serving a ban after his red card against Sheffield was overturned, to Paul Hurst’s delight. However, fellow midfielder Abu Ogogo did not have his overturned and will start a three match ban.
Despite Shrewsbury’s poor form this season, Paul Hurst is still trying to give his players a morale boost.
“Do we feel sorry for ourselves? Do we think we are not good enough again? Or, do we think, we were up against it, and go to Fleetwood and have a good battle and try to take away a positive result?”