Hinckley AFC and Studley have similar records in the Midland League First Division so far, and one side could take the upper hand when they meet at the Welfare Ground tomorrow.
Both Hinckley and Studley have won four and drawn three of their league games thus far, the Bees sitting one place higher in the league by virtue of goal difference.
But just four points separate the duo from fourth place Cadbury Athletic with both having games in hand on the Chocolatemen.
Studley have comfortably the best defensive record in the league, letting in just four goals in their eight games so far and keeping five clean sheets in their last seven games in all competitions.
But after the departure of Grant Ryan this week, manager James Jepson is confident that Jordan Wilson and Louis Hamilton can strike up a new partnership up front.
“Grant’s departure gives an opportunity for Jordan and Louis to strike up a partnership. Nkosi can play up there and Belcher can too.
“So we’ve got four people who can play up there, and it might provide a chance for the talented Under 18s too.”
After struggling to find the net earlier on in the season, Studley have netted four in each of their last three games – but Hinckley are seeking a second straight clean sheet themselves.
Joining the defence last week was versatile defender Cameron Gilchrist, who joined on loan from AFC Rushden and Diamonds and made his debut at Littleton.
The 21-year-old played made a Scottish Premier League appearance for Inverness Caledonian Thistle a couple of years ago before joining Barwell and then Rushden – and Jepson says he will improve the back line.
“He can play right back, centre half or centre midfield. He got promoted with Rushden last season and he’s not been involved much recently.
“We’ve agreed to take him on loan to give him some game time, and we know he’s a good player. We expect him to be with us for the foreseeable.”
Former Littleton man Dan Carter, who scored 46 goals last season, is their joint top scorer along with Joe Adams, who scored twice against Littleton in midweek.
Adults: £6
Concessions: £4
Under 16s: £2 (FREE with HAFC Junior membership card)
