Football Analyst

After 14 league games without a win, Justin Edinburgh took charge of his first batch of games. Would the former Northampton man get the new manager bounce?

In his first game, Edinburgh’s O’s travelled to face rock bottom Solihull Moors, can you sense where this one is going? A major call from Edinburgh putting goalkeeping coach Dean Brill between the sticks, a man who hadn’t played a game for two and half years. In a shaky start where Orient continued their performance for Torquay, Brill was keeping the O’s in the game. Joe Widdowson made some last ditch tackles but Solihull struck with you’ve guessed it…. a free header.

Well I think Dean Brill would tell you right now that it was a mistake at his near post. Orient struggled and it could have worse had Brill not saved a penalty in the dying minutes. 15 league games, no win, frustration was for all to see in the away end with emotions running high.

Could Edinburgh halt the run at home to joint leaders Sutton United. Indeed he could and what relieve there was all around Brisbane Road. Bonne struck from the spot after Dayton was taken out in the box. A totally different Orient side, who had their passion back but were thankful for a fine Dean Brill stop which on other day changes the game.

Harrold doubled the advantage early in the second half with a header before Bonne struck his second of the game. It was happening, a win at last well Orient did have to concede first when Tommy Wright fired home. But Dayton wrapped up victory and finally “Rocking all over the world” reverberated around Brisbane Road.

With a League win under the belt, the O’s travelled to Haringey Borough in the first round of the FA Trophy. A team 58 places below Orient but with a new manager, would the tie still be a banana skin? Certainly after conceding within five minutes. Returning Josh Coulson knew he was in for a fight with Haringey all over Orient. A brilliant Brill save kept Orient in the game.

Second half, it was a totally different contest, Edinburgh gave them a rocket, Coulson volley home from a corner seconds before he was substituted. Then within seconds of coming on Matt Harrold headed Orient to Round Two from another corner. Two wins in a row, what is going on at Orient? Edinburgh’s side just about past the test, on to the next one.

Maidstone United away and another plastic pitch. You’ve guessed it….. actually we won on a artificial surface for once, what is going on? On loan Bondz N’Gala poked Orient ahead from yet another corner. Orient were realising what National League football was all about. Compact, tough to beat and doing the nasty parts of the game. Orient wrapped up their third, yes third win a row when Bonne swept home a Jake Caprice cross. Sending the Orient fans, who had been packed in the away end like cattle, into raptures. Even breaking the gate onto the pitch, yes you know who you are……..

A boxing day derby against Dagenham & Redbridge was next in the offing. A chance to treat the old man and become part of the prawn sandwich brigade for a day. A great day including a fine victory, a fourth on the spin. Coulson’s headed (well it is hard to miss with the sheer size of the thing) the O’s ahead in the second half, after a wonderful Dayton cross. The winger was at it again when he laid in Macauley Bonne who took two bites at the cherry before squeezing the ball home. A feel good factor was starting to return, with the spirit in the squad clear to see.

The month and year was seen out when Bromley arrived in E10. The O’s were keen for some revenge after their 6-1 mauling back in August. But once more than small, irritating striker in George Porter managed to get N’Gala sent off, much to the anger of Edinburgh and the rest of the Brisbane Road crowd. Unfortunately Louis Dennis curled Bromley ahead in the first half but any onlooker will tell you now, how Orient didn’t get a least point it beyond them.

Playing with 10 men, Orient were creating chance after chance after chance, but nothing was dropping in. Coulson was winning everything from set pieces, he had one cleared off the line, one smash the post but nothing nestled in the net. A second defeat under Edinburgh, the key was how would they respond after another setback?

With the O’s without a league win since the Start of September, the pressure was ever growing on Orient’s head coach Steve Davis, the question was how much patience would the new Owners have?

First up, an FA Cup First Round Trip to Gillingham, a fantastic tie, well…. I think you will find it a struggle to find any O’s fans who thought that at the time. The only benefit this time is we had a roof!. Playing a team two divisions higher and severely out of form was always going to be a challenge for Orient. Especially when you leave men unmarked in the box which is exactly what they did allowing Josh Parker to head home the opener.

The O’s rallied in the second half with a change to a 4-4-2 diamond and they really should have levelled. Mooney, Dayton and Sendles-White all went close but the O’s were dealt with a sucker punch. With 74 minutes on the clock, WWE ensued with Sendles-White wrestled to the floor before Tom Eaves netted the second. James Dayton halved the deficit but the O’s couldn’t find a way back even finding themselves down to 10 men after Joe Widdowson received a second yellow card.

A week on and back to league action, a late kick off on BT Sport away at Ebbsfleet, I think you know what is coming. Yes a defeat and the last game in charge for Steve Davis who was dismissed in midweek after the game. Another game, another early goal conceded, a cross from the right touched home by Andy Drury. Orient rallied with Harrold twice going close but once more, a cross from a wide area and a header in. This time Danny Kedwell connecting with a Myles Weston cross.

“He’ll be gone by Monday” were the words I uttered to my old man as it went 2-0.  James Dayton halved the deficit late on but as the O’s extended their winless run to ten league games, Davis’s time was up. Oh and we still remember that incident Sendles-White, trying to fight a fan…. needless to say he didn’t stay for too long…..

With Ross Embleton in temporary charge, league leaders Dover Athletic was exactly what Orient didn’t need. But with a fresh man at the helm, the O’s responded and really should have grabbed all three points. Nortei Nortey curled Dover ahead in the first half but the O’s were right up for the contest. Somehow the scores remain level after the break mainly down to an inspirational performance from Mitch Walker in the Dover goal. Keeping out Bonne on more than one occasion but midfielder Craig Clay wasn’t to be denied and he levelled with 12 to go. The O’s threw everything at Dover but Walker was in fine form. An improvement under Embleton but still they were missing that elusive league win.

Hopefully Tuesday and a visit of Chester City could see the O’s pick up a win. Well, the referee seemed to have other ideas, in one of the worst displays ever seen at Brisbane Road (there have been plenty). Bonne nodded the O’s ahead early on before Chester were awarded a goal with the ball deemed to have crossed the line, with the linesman miles away and the referee without a clue, they made the decision. Ross Hannah fired Chester ahead with a free kick before yet more controversy. Incensed enough, Orient fans were outraged when Sendles-White was given his marching orders after “apparently bringing down Nyal Bell”. Sam Sargeant saved the penalty and the O’s battled back for a point when Jobi McAnuff fired a screamer home in the second half.

13 games and counting without a league win when they travelled to Torquay United where not many Orient fans held out much hope. With Orient in free fall and heading to a side second bottom, need I say more where this one is going. They wanted it more, right from the off, Orient’s preparations weren’t exactly helped when James Brophy was recalled by Swindon on Friday afternoon but they still have to put a performance in.

Josh McQuoid struck early before Zain Wesbrooke opted to play for Torquay providing Luke Young with a free ball and run to fire them 2-0 ahead. The O’s were no where and it was a painful watch especially when Jamie Reid made it 3-0 within two minutes of the second half kicking off. A dark day in Devon, made even better by Jake Caprice bottling the fight and receiving a red cad for a horrendous challenge. One of the worst performance I have seen as an O’s fan, surely it can only get better…….

The O’s did appoint a new head coach with former Northampton man Justin Edinburgh taking the reigns, first up a trip to rock bottom Solihull Moors in December, Can you sense what is coming…….

After two contrasting months of the season, Orient moved into October without a win since the 2nd September. With long away trips ahead and a date with local rivals Dagenham & Redbridge in the FA Cup, what would October bring?

First up a midweek trip to Tranmere Rovers, you can sense what is coming, a game on BT Sport. Yes, you got it another defeat. Much like Hartlepool in September, the O’s took the lead when Matt Harrold turned in James Dayton’s cross. But in the torrential rain and blustery conditions, Orient’s defense went walkabouts again allowing Andy Cook to finish after a fine save from Charlie Grainger. Both sides went close but Orient succumbed to a late James Norwood header to extend their winless run.

After just getting home, back up North to Barrow we went, where you guessed it dark, bleak and horizontal rain on the uncovered terrace. The first sight of a back three for the Orient with Joe Widdowson proving most of his doubters wrong with a fine performance. David Mooney fired the O’s ahead before a very fortunate leveller from Bedsente Gomis after his mistimed volley bounced over Grainger. Craig Clay restored Orient’s lead with the mother of all penalty box scrambles but once more the O’s defensive frailties popped up. A free header inside the box and a sleeping Mark Ellis allowed Jordan White to tap home for a point.

A break from the League with a trip to Dagenham & Redbridge in FA Cup qualifying action. A first for Orient who after relegation had to fight to make it to round One. In a cagey affair both Bonne and Mooney hit the crossbar while Bonne also missed the target with a header. But finally the winning feeling returned in the replay on Tuesday when Bonne notched to send Orient to round One. The relief on Steve Davis’s face was for all to see, but could they grab three points in the League?

Well, it probably should have been when Macclesfield visited Brisbane Road. After strong winds disrupted kick off with the “energy bet” hoardings failing in the wind. With the brief disruption, the O’s started on the front foot and should have been ahead. However much like recent weeks, a lapse in concentration allowed Scott Wilson to head home at the back post after Jake Caprice decided he would be better left unmarked. The O’s huffed and puffed in the second half and should have been level but that was how it was running for Orient at the time.

A quick response and a chance to bounce back on Tuesday against Gateshead. Well the response was Steve Davis changing formation more times than the ball went out of play in the first half. A unchallenged cross into the box and free header, need I say more, allowed Jordan Burrow to put Gateshead ahead. Orient struggled to create with David Mooney getting confused inside the box taking a million and one touches before seeing his shot saved. A guilt edge chance, which Gateshead put behind them when an early Christmas contender for the Bloopers DVD’s. A long ball forward, easy to deal with but when no Orient player takes control, Mark Ellis heads the ball past the onrushing Grainger, leaving Burrow to notch his second.

A European away day, well it may have only been in Wrexham but they all count. A quick start was needed from the O’s…….. well it was after they picked the ball out of the net after 30 seconds when Chris Holroyd put Wrexham in front. With injuries and suspensions in the squad, Zain Westbrooke was handed a start in midfield and was the best player on the pitch. Wrexham sat back and allowed Orient to play, Bonne levelled when his cross shot from the left found the top corner.

Despite being without an away win since the start of September, Orient were the better side with Dayton seeing a wonderful effort cannon off the bar. However, in true Orient fashion, Wrexham went ahead three minutes later when Holroyd swept home. But after his mistake on Tuesday, Mark Ellis responded powering home the equaliser much to the delight of Kent Teague who was celebrating in the away end.

Another month, no league win but at least we’ve won a game. The pressure on Steve Davis is continuing to mount, how long will the former Crewe man last…..

After a promising first month of the season in E10, The O’s sat in 3rd position something that was beyond any fans dreams after the defeat at Sutton on the opening day. However, this was far from the position we would end the month in.

Guiseley arrived first in E10 where that man Macauley Bonne continued to fire the goals in. After falling behind early to an Odedayi finish, Bonne dispatched two penalties the second after a trade mark Mooney fall…… Next up fresh from the bench Matt Harrold nodded his first for the club before Bonne notched the first O’s hat trick at Brisbane Road in the League in 11 years. Would the O’s continue their good form?

A local trip to Boreham Wood was next where the first half of the season would unravel right before O’s fans eyes. Outplayed on a pristine pitch, maintained by Arsenal who pay One Million a season on the up keep and battered by wind and rain on the uncovered terrace. After conceding around the half hour mark, Bonne wasted a glorious chance on half time before Boreham Wood added a second after the break. A game in which David Mooney by his own admission stated “he had a shocker”, I am pretty sure every O’s fan there that day could vouch for that. Then after losing Josh Coulson to injury, Orient other first choice center back George Elokobi failed to finish the game through injury. A tale of what was to come …..

A response was needed by the O’s and they didn’t have to wait long as FC Halifax were next to travel to E10. However with a make shift center back pairing who failed to deal with Tom Denton who wouldn’t look out of place in Land of the Giants. The 6ft 7 forward was left free reign to nod to his strike partner for number one before the O’s back line inexplicably left the tallest, most obvious target for a free kick, free at the back post to nod number two. Struggling to contain Denton, Matt Kosylo was running rings around Jake Caprice and wrapped up victory from the spot for number three.

Hartlepool next, in front of the BT Sport Cameras, need I say more. Another game on the box, another defeat. But the O’s took the lead in this one, Jobi McAnuff slotting home in the first half with the O’s playing well they should have had more. Well, where have we heard that before, the game turned on two set pieces either side of half time where the O’s decided not to challenge or defend two balls into their box. The result a 2-1 defeat their third in a row, were the wheels falling off??

Could the O’s end the slide at Aldershot? Yes but if you had said that after half hour, all the O’s fans would have been laughing. After Cheye Alexander fired the Shots ahead, it was all one way traffic before a light breeze blew Jamie Sendles-White over allowing Matt McClure to make it 2-0. The O’s were shell shocked but after Craig Clay halved the deficit before the break, the O’s pushed for a second and somehow, still I am baffled now how Bonne’s header was kept out. A different game in the second half where Aldershot should have wrapped up victory through Rendell but in true National League fashion a route one goal gave Orient a point with Boco notching the equaliser.

No win but a draw, could Orient return to winning ways when AFC Fylde sorry AFC Rowe visited E10. The prolific frontman put Fylde ahead after Orient’s defensive wall capitulated right before Charlie Grainger eyes. Recently promoted Fylde started to sit back with Orient struggling to level. Rowe highlighted his predatory finishing making it two, smashing home from 30 yards at the start of the second half. Orient should have pulled a goal back when on loan defender Mark Ellis somehow headed over from five yards out. McAnuff did halve the deficit finishing at the back post, but the O’s fell to another defeat.

Where was the next win coming from………

The start of a new era in E10 with new owners,  a new manager in former Crewe man, Steve Davis and a brand new squad. There was finally some renewed optimism after the grey cloud had  been lifted in June. First up Sutton United away  in front of the TV Cameras, the sense of an opening day shock. The surprise package of the FA Cup the season before against a team recently relegated. The O’s were a brand new team, short of fitness, slotted together in the matter of weeks and it showed. Given a lesson in what National League football is all about physical, direct and hard working. Battering rain, a 4G pitch all played their part in a 2-0 defeat on opening day.

The return to Brisbane Road after the shenanigans of the pitch invasion at the back end of last season where Solihull Moors were the visitors. The realisation of Orient were now playing in the fifth tier. Newly appointed Captain Charlie Lee grabbed Orient’s first ever National League Goal before the returning David Mooney netted his first Orient goal in 3 years. George Elokobi netted Orient’s third to give them their first victory in the National League.

Maidstone United were next to visit Brisbane Road, probably one of the loudest contingent of away fans all season. In the August sun, Orient’s new side was starting to click with James Dayton crossing for Mooney to head the opener. Orient made it back to back victories when Romauld Boco (remember him?) slid home the second.

Bromley away, the less said about this one the better. A team littered with ex Orient players and you could sense the inevitable was coming when George Porter nodded Bromley ahead. Another 4G pitch, another defeat, this one heavy, and the goals kept flooding in the O’s goal. A night to forget in South East London where reality said in that Orient still have a lot of work to do.  The only plus, striker MacAuley Bonne grabbed his first O’s goal.

The games kept on coming and a trip to Woking was next. A rather drab first half was lit up when Orient’s right hand side linked up once more. Jake Caprice’s cross was bundled home by Bonne, who later wrapped up victory with a individual effort.

Eastleigh at home was the first in an August Bank Holiday double, after skipper Charlie Lee was ruled out for much of the season after his ACL injury in training, Orient fell behind to a first half penalty. With Graham Stack’s continual time wasting and goading the South Stand, he got what he deserved when Craig Clay squeezed home a 97th minute equaliser, signalling every O’s fans to direct words at him.

Maidenhead away the last of what was an action packed month. In the summer sun, well it was bloody hot in that away end with the temperatures rising after the O’s fans celebrated Bonne’s opener. One of the contender for goal of the season, a lovely turn by Dayton on the right, a cross which Bonne flicked into the far corner, ending with a romantic moment between the pair.

A defensive display to be proud of, every O’s player put their bodies on the line, grabbing three precious points to end the month on a high. A month with up’s and downs but the club was finally back with good times, how long would that last?

Leyton Orient head coach Justin Edinburgh admits the season is finishing too soon for his side. The O’s sit in mid table after the former Newport man guided them to safety after a difficult first campaign in the National League. The 48 year old has made Orient harder to beat and speaking to leytonorient.com he stated “I am hoping everyone can see the potential and what I am trying to do. Myself, the staff and the players can see their is real optimism for next season”.

• Sit 14th on 54 points
• Form in last Six – W3  D2  L1
• League Record – P43  W14  D12  L17  F54  A54

The O’s lost their first game in six away at Hartlepool on Tuesday. Louis Laing’s first half header was the difference between the sides as Orient struggled to create chances. Josh Koroma wasted their best chance of the night but Edinburgh highlighted to leytonorient.com “perhaps we need to have a little bit more creativity in that final third. For the periods that we spent in Hartlepool’s half throughout the 95 minutes, we just didn’t pick the right pass or final ball that would open them up”.

• Failed to score in 14 league game (six at home)
• First game in five failed to score on Tuesday
• Scored in six of their last seven home games
• Scored two or more in four of their eight home games in 2018
• Scored seven in their last two home games

Goalkeeper Dean Brill was disappointed that despite having the majority of possession, his side were hit by a set piece. The former Colchester keeper has been Orient’s number one since Edinburgh arrived and hopes his side can bounce back on Saturday. Speaking to leytonorient.com “since the gaffer’s come in especially if we had disappointment or a lost, we have really bounced back well, in football there is nothing better than having a game in a couple of days to do that”.

• Kept 11 league clean sheets (four at home)
• No clean sheet in last four 
• Last clean sheet (3-0 vs Woking, 24/03/2018)
• Two clean sheets in last six
• Only kept one clean sheet in last seven home games

After gaining back to back home victories, Edinburgh is keen for his side to continue their winning momentum at Brisbane Road. It will be a tough ask hosting a Wrexham side eyeing up the play offs “we want to make it three on Saturday and four on Tuesday. We know we have got tough opponents in Wrexham , who are in a position that we would love to be in”. He added “we have given a very good account of ourselves whether that be against Barrow or Woking or top of the table Macclesfield. It’s the last Saturday home game and it’s our duty to put a performance in to get that 3rd straight victory”.

• Home League Record – P21  W7  D6  L8  F32  A25
• Won their last two
• Only lost one of their last six – W2  D3  L1 (defeat, 0-1 vs Torquay, 13/03/18)
• Only lost two of eight home games in 2018
• Last won three home games in a row August 2015

After several seasons of nail bitting finishes or despair, most O’s fans have welcomed a rather dull end to the season. However Edinburgh is keen for his side to create momentum to take into the summer, “we want to press hard until the end of the season, it is key for us, we have spoke to the players and they know how important it is to finish strongly”. The O’s could still grab a top half spot and Edinburgh highlighted it still maintains their aim “we are focused on making sure we get as many points as we can to finish as high up in the table as we can”.

• Nine of last 17 goals scored have been in the second half
• Eight of the last 12 conceded have been in the first half
• Top half Record – P22  W4  D8  L10
• Home Record – W2  D4  L4

Wrexham head to East London knowing a win is a must if they want a place in the play offs. The Dragons dropped out of the play offs on Tuesday night after Ebbsfleet’s win at Eastleigh. Wrexham continued their poor recent form last weekend with a 2-1 home defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge. Paul Rutherford gave them the lead but Fejiri Okenabirhie levelled the scores before David Raven put through his own net.

• Sit 8th on 69 points – one point outside play offs
• No win in last five – D2  L3
• Form in last six – W1  D2  L3
• Only won two of their last 12 – W2  D7  L3
• League Record – P44  W17  D18  L9  F49  A38

Manager Andy Davies couldn’t believe that his side came away with no points last week, speaking to dailypost.co.uk he stated “anybody who watched that game will first and foremost not understand how we haven’t won it. In terms of pressure, chances and opportunities, especially second, it is a wonder how we haven’t come away with the win”.

• Failed to score in 12 league games (eight away)
• Failed to score in two of their last four
• Only Scored four goals in last six games
• Scored in three of last four away
• Only scored two or more in four away league games

The Dragons promotion bid has been halted with Dean Keates’s departure in March to Walsall, Davies’s side have only taken five points from a possible 18 on offer. Despite their dip in form, Davies knows that with everybody taking points off each other, it is clear what his side have to do. “We have got two games left, Leyton Orient away, which is a game we have got to go and get three points in and that sets up the last game of the season. Other teams are going to drop points, so we’ve got to make sure we are in there and remain positive which we will be going down to Orient on Saturday”.

• Away League Record – P22  W7  D9  L6  F18  A21
• Only Halifax (17) have scored less away
• No win in last six – D5  L1 (defeat, 3-0 vs Eastleigh, 10/04/2018)
• Only won two of their last 12 – W2  D7  L3
• Five of their seven wins have been by one goal

Despite netting the opener against Dagenham, Paul Rutherford’s goal wasn’t enough to gain some points. The 30 year old insists that his side still believe that they can reach the play offs, speaking to wrexhamafc.co.uk “we will fight tooth and nail to get in there, if we play like we did today then we give ourselves a good chance to win”. Wrexham have draw 18 games this season but Rutherford makes it clear what his side have to do “we need to get maximum points, we need to make sure we do our business, it is a massive game next week, full focus making sure we take the points”

• Scored 25/49 league goals in second half (10/18 away)
• Last three have been in the first half
• Conceded 21/38 league goals in first half 
• Nine between 1-15 minutes and Nine between 31-45 minutes
• 1/3 of their away league goals have been conceded in the first 15 minutes of games (6/18)

Saturday’s defeat for Wrexham was the third game in a row they failed to win after taking the lead. Striker Scott Quigley is fully aware that if his side are to challenge it is something they will have to eradicate. Speaking to wrexhamafc.co.uk “There is only two games left, we are still there depending on other results, a few games we have been front and we have thrown away the lead, it’s not good enough”.

• Kept 21 league clean sheets – most in National League (ten away)
• No clean sheet in last five – conceding eight
• Last clean sheet – 1-0 vs Maidstone, 24/03/2018
• No Clean sheet in last four away, just one in last six away (0-0 vs Solihull, 20/02/2018)

Winger Jack Mackreth wants his side to replicate their performance of last week, despite the defeat the winger felt his side did not more than enough to earn victory. Speaking to wrexhamafc.co.uk “we were on the front foot all game and missed a lot of chances, if  we replicate the performance of today and are positive and on the front foot, we can go and beat Orient next week”.

• Have only lost one of their 23 games against the bottom half (2-1 vs Maidstone)    P23  W10  D12  L1    42/69 points
• Away record – P11  W3  D7  L1

Team News

Leyton Orient will have to check on the fitness of defender George Elokobi and winger James Brophy who both came off injured on Tuesday night. Dan Happe could start alongside Marvin Ekpiteta in defence while Lemar Reynolds could start on the wing. Josh Coulson and James Dayton remain injured but Dan Holman and Alex Lawless could return to the squad.

Wrexham will still be without striker Chris Holroyd who remains out through injury but Kevin Roberts returns after completing his suspension. Jack MacKreth should continue in midfield after assisting Paul Rutherford’s goal last weekend.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 11, Draw 11, Wrexham 11

Last meeting  – 28/10/2017 – Wrexham 2-2 Leyton Orient

The last seven meetings

• Wrexham have only won one of their last six trips to Brisbane Road

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-2 Wrexham 

Leyton Orient defender Joe Widdowson insists there will be no let up in performance when his side travel to Hartlepool on Tuesday evening. Orient have only lost once in their last seven games and the former Dagenham left back wants his to continue that record at Victoria Road. Speaking to leytonorient.com “a draw was probably a fair result and a good result as we want to stay unbeaten until the end of the season. We are putting our foot down as we want to do well in these games”.

• Sit 14th on 54 points
• Form in last six – W3  D2  L1
• Taken 11 points from last 15 available
• League Record – P42  W14  D12  L16  F54  A53

The O’s extended their unbeaten run to five games on Saturday with a 1-1 draw at Macclesfield. Josh Koroma’s strike cancelled out Danny Whittaker’s opener at Moss Rose. Head Coach Justin Edinburgh was delighted with the performance of his side and speaking to BBC London stated “ I thought we gave a very good account of ourselves and apart from a miraculous block on the line, stopped us collecting all three points”

• Away League Record – P21  W7  D6  L8  F22  A28
• Unbeaten in last three – W1  D2
• One win in last five – 3-1 vs Guiseley, 30/03/2018
• Only lost one of last nine away league games, Dover 1-0, 03/03/2018
• Seven of the 11 wins under Edinburgh have been away

Orient fell behind early on Saturday for the second game in a row but Edinburgh’s side have shown resilience in recent weeks to battle back and earn points. Widdowson felt his side on another day could have taken all three points, “overall, I think we created the most chance and carried the greater goal threat, apart from their goal I don’t remember too many scoring opportunities”.

• Failed to score in 13 league games (seven away)
• Scored in three of last five on the road
• Scored in their last four games and six of their last eight in all competitions
• Scored in eight of their last ten away games

After a shaky opening period at Moss Rose, Orient defended well and kept Macclesfield’s chances to a minimum in the second period. Edinburgh handed Marvin Ekpiteta his first start for the club in the absence of Josh Coulson and the former Newport man praised his and the rest of the defensive display. Speaking to leytonorient.com “Joe was excellent from start to finish, Marsh is a dangerous for them and he marked him out of the game. I am delighted for Marvin, he was excellent alongside George and Lingy”. He added “we looked assured and very solid at the back”.

• Kept 11 league clean sheets (seven away)
• No clean sheet in last three (last 3-0 win vs Woking, 24/03/2018)
• Two clean sheets in last five games 
• Three clean sheets in last seven away games
• Conceded just seven goals in last 11 league games

Orient have pulled themselves clear of the relegation zone into mid table and Edinburgh has made it clear that he wants his side to carry momentum into next season’s campaign. After impressing against the league leaders Edinburgh will be looking for his side to be in that position next season. Speaking to leytonorient.com “A club like ours needs to be up at that top end, the momentum we take in will make the pathway clearer for next year. I am delighted with the players they have been non-stop on the training pitch this week”.

• Scored 32/54 league goals in second half – 11/22 away
• Netted 15 in final 15 minutes of games
• Nine of their last 17 have been in the second half
• Conceded 34/53 league goals in the first half
• Four of their last five conceded in league have been in first half

Hartlepool moved a point nearer safety on Saturday earning a point at promotion chasing Sutton United. Josh Hawkes’s equaliser earned Pools a point in South London after Ross Lafayette put Sutton ahead early on.

• Sit 19th on 49 points
• No win in last three – D1  L2
• Form in last six – W3  D1  L2
• League Record – P43  W12  D13  L18  F49  A61

After battling back to earn a point at Gander Green Lane, midfielder Nicky Featherstone thought his side grew into the game and could have grabbed a winner. Speaking to the northernecho “I think you’d have taken a point after the first ten minutes, it’s a tough place to come, the way they play, they are very direct and a big physical side. We got better as the game went on and I thought in the second half we might go on and nick it”.

• Scored 27/49 in the second half – 12/22 at home
• Four of their last seven have been in the first half
• Failed to score in 14 league games (eight at home)
• Failed in two of their last three games
• Scored in five of their last seven games

After months of turmoil at Victoria Road with ownership issues, there finally appears to be green shoots of recovery. A consortium led by former Darlington owner Raj Singh have taken over the club, instilling former Pool manager Craig Hignett as Director of Football while Matthew Bates will stay in charge till the end of the season. It ended a good month for Pools with the news as Bates won manager of month for March but knows the work has not finished yet.

• Kept eight league clean sheets (four at home)
• No clean sheet in last seven – conceding nine goals
• Only kept one clean sheet in last 23 matches – 0-0 vs Boreham Wood, 10/03/2018
• No clean sheet in last three home games
• Just one in their last 10 at Victoria Road

Sitting just five points above the relegation zone, the next week could prove pivotal to which division the Pools will be playing in next season. Following the visit of Orient on Tuesday, Hartlepool host Torquay on Saturday and results in both could secure their safety. Interim manager Matthew Bates wants his side to build on Saturday’s point on Tuesday night, speaking to hartlepoolunited.co.uk “we’re due a win at home now, we need to do what we’re doing away from home, fight and spirit”. 

• Home League Record – P21  W6  D5  L10  F22  A25
• One win in last five – W1  D1  L3 (win 2-1 vs Bromley, 27/03/2018)
• Only won two home games since mid November – W2  D2  L6 

Hartlepool have struggled at home in 2018 taking just seven points from 24 available and Bates understands that after back to back 1-0 home defeats, his side need to bounce back. Speaking to the Northern Echo “we have conceded two late goals in the last two home games and it’s hard to take, our home form has been terrible”. The crowd at Victoria have got restless in recent games and Bates knows a fast start could be key “it’s so important to start well at home, win your tackles and your battles, then the fans come with you and make it easier”.

• Conceded 39/61 league goals in second half (only Guiseley and Eastleigh 41 have conceded more
• 22 (12 at home) have been in final 15 minutes of games – joint most in league
• Have dropped seven points in that period this season and lost their last two home matches in that period
• Three of their last four games have conceded a goal in final 15 minutes

Team News

Leyton Orient will have to check on the fitness of Josh Koroma after the winger was forced off in the draw with Macclesfield. James Brophy could be a doubt after picking up a knock on Saturday. Alex Lawless returned to the squad on Saturday while Marvin Ekpiteta is set to continue in defence. Josh Coulson and James Dayton are still out through injury but striker Dan Holman could return at Hartlepool.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 20, Draw 9, Hartlepool United 20

Last Meeting – 16/09/2017 – Leyton Orient 1-2 Hartlepool United

The last eight meetings between the sides

• There has not been a drawn between the sides since 05/11/2011 – 1-1 draw at Brisbane Road.
• One draw in the past 15 meetings between sides

Prediction – Hartlepool United 0-2 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient assistant manager Ross Embleton wants his side to make an impression when they visit table toppers Macclesfield tomorrow. The O’s travel to face the Silkmen in front of the BT Sport cameras and the former Swindon man is hoping his side can ruin the home sides day. Speaking to leytonorient.com “We go there to spoil the party and delay that opportunity of going up”.

• Sit 12th on 53 points
• Form in last six – W3  D2  L1  F11  A4
• Won last three games scoring ten goals
• League Record – P41  W14  D11  L16  F53  A52

The O’s travel North after picking up their third straight victory last weekend with a 4-1 win over Barrow. Orient fell behind early on to a Luke James header but after equalising before half time, a brace from top scorer MacAuley Bonne and a Josh Koroma strike helped them to victory.

• Away League Record – P20  W7  D5  L8  F21  A27
• One win in last four – 3-1 vs Guiseley, 30/03/18
• Only one defeat in last eight league games – 1-0 vs Dover, 03/03/18
• Seven of Orient’s 11 wins under Edinburgh have been away

Orient sit relatively comfortable in mid table and Embleton was pleased with the manner his side ground out victory last weekend. It was only their second win in 21 games when conceding the first goal and the former Swindon man acknowledged his side have come a long way since the early part of the season. Speaking to East London Advertiser “I’m not sure we would have finished them off in the manner we did. I think it shows we have an edge about us now and this is a sterner Leyton Orient team going out on the pitch”.

Defender George Elokobi was disappointed his side failed to keep a clean sheet against Barrow but insists despite having nothing to play for this season, they are desperate to keep their unbeaten run going. Speaking to leytonorient.com “the mood is really good, we want to carry on winning games and keep the run going. At the same time, respect each team we play. It’s all about building momentum, we motivate and push each other through. We want to carry on working hard and make sure we keep run going”.

• Kept 11 League clean sheets – (seven away)
• No clean sheet in last two
• Last clean sheet – 3-0 vs Woking, 24/03/18
• Two clean sheets in last four
• Three clean sheets in last six away games
• Only conceded six goals in last ten league games

Striker Macauley Bonne moved to 20 league goals after his brace against Barrow and despite heading to the league leaders tomorrow, he is hungry for more goals. Bonne who joined from Colchester United last summer highlighted that he wants Orient to put the champagne on ice for Macclesfield. Speaking to nationalleague.org.uk “We’re coming up there to totally spoil their party, the seasons not done yet and we’ve still got a job to do. I’m sure they we will win it eventually but we’re not planning on being the ones they win it against”.

• Orient have scored 32/53 league goals in second half – 11/21/ away
• Netted 15 goals in the final 15 minutes of games
• Nine of the last 16 scored in the league have been in the second half

After a turbulent season in E10 after relegation last season, Orient are hoping for a top half finish with Embleton stating to leytonorient.com “we are striving to achieve, we have been looking up for a number of weeks, as a group we strive to finish up the league as high as we can. We look at teams around us and the teams we can catch”.

• Failed to score in 13 league games (seven away)
• Scored three or more in last three games
• Failed to score in two of last four away
• But scored in nine of the 13 away games under Edinburgh
• Scored in seven of last nine away games

Tomorrow’s clash with Macclesfield will be Orient’s fifth televised fixture this season and after losing all five, Embleton is keen with his side upwardly mobile to continue their form. Speaking to leytonorient.com “the attitude has to remain the same, they are full of confidence and are certainly making every opportunity to get back to the football league. In front of the cameras we want to go out, make an impression and build the momentum”.

• Conceded 33/52 goals in the first half of games
• 12 between 1-15 minutes and 14 between 31-45 minutes
• Eight of the last 11 goals conceded have been in first 15 or last 15 minutes of games
• 14/24 under Edinburgh and nine of the last 15 conceded have been in second half

Macclesfield host Orient needing just four points to clinch the National League title and promotion back to the Football League. The Silkmen edged closer on Tuesday night after a 2-0 win at Boreham Wood, courtesy of a brace from Tyrone Marsh and will be looking to ebb even nearer on Saturday.

• Sit 1st on 85 points – 12 above second placed Tranmere
• Form in last six – W4  D2
• One loss in last 13 – W9   D3  L1 (2-0 vs Dover)
• League Record – P43  W25  D10  L8  F62  A45

Manager John Askey praised the professionalism of his side after picking up their fourth win in their last five games. Speaking to Silk 106.9 after the win, he stated “coming to  place like that is always very tough, they are a good side but we were very professional with how we went about our job. They have been fantastic again and shown why we are where we are”.

• Home League Record – P21  W12  D6  L3  F28  A18
• Only Tranmere (42) have taken more points at home
• Won last five at home – last defeat 2-1 vs Eastleigh 28/10/17
• Unbeaten in last 12 games – W8  D4
• Three of their last four home wins have been 1-0

Askey admitted post match that despite Macclesfield lead growing at the top in recent weeks, he has still thought about all the scenarios. But with just three games to go, Askey knows that his side have it in their hands to clinch promotion “Tranmere have got it all to do, we know what we’ve got to do, four points from the last three games. We have been averaging more than that all season so I believe we can do it”.

• Kept 17 League clean sheets (10 at home – Only Wrexham 11 kept more)
• Two clean sheets in last three
• Three clean sheets in last four
• Four of last seven games, they have conceded at least two goals
• Not conceded more than one home goal in last ten home games

Midfielder Danny Whittaker has been an ever present this season for the Silkmen, missing just two league games. The 37 year old re-joined the club back in 2013 and revealed his was devastated when they dropped out the League in 2012. But speaking to nationalleague.org.uk “When I came back, I always knew the gaffer would be able to put a team together that was able to challenge, I just didn’t know how long it would take. Luckily, I’m able to play a part in it”.

• Failed to score in seven games  – only Fylde 6 have failed in less
• Scored 39/62 league goals in second half 
• 18/28 home goals in second half –
• Including 11 in final 15 minutes – gaining 10 points

Askey played for the Silkmen between 87 and 2003, playing a part in their promotion from the fifth tier to the Football League in 1997. The 53 year old has Macclesfield running through is blood and his reputation at Moss Rose would increase even more if he could lead them to promotion. Speaking to Silk 106.9 on what promotion would mean “football wise it would mean everything, it would be my biggest achievement. To get the club back in the Football League where as a player we worked so hard to get there before seeing them back in the conference would be a massive achievement” 

• Conceded 23/45 league goals in second half
• Four of their last six have been in second half

Macclesfield could be crown champions if they win tomorrow and second placed Tranmere fail to win at home to Aldershot. Despite Orient arriving in mid table, Whittaker is aware that the East Londoners will want to spoil the party, “it’s always nice to play on TV but with the position we’re in, it’s a little bit special. Every match in the National League is difficult and poses different problems. Orient have picked up recently but we’ll go into it like we have the past four or five games, full of confidence”.

• Record against top half – P20  W11  D5 L4
• Unbeaten at home – W6  D3  – keeping six clean sheets
• 10/25 wins and 6/12 home wins have ended 1-0

Team News

Leyton Orient will be without the injured quartet of James Dayton, Josh Coulson, Alex Lawless and Matt Harrold. Charlie Lee is back in training but still off match fitness. Marvin Ekpiteta could be handed his first start alongside George Elokobi in defence while Dan Holman could return to the squad after missing the win over Barrow.

Macclesfield will be without Ryan Lloyd who is out through injury while Elliott Durrell is doubtful. Striker Tyrone Marsh is looking to add to his four goals in his last four games, including a brace in Tuesday’s win at Boreham Wood.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 6, Draw 3, Macclesfield 8

Last meeting – 21/10/17 – Leyton Orient 0-1 Macclesfield

The Last seven meetings between sides

Prediction – Macclesfield 1-1 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient midfielder Jobi McAnuff insists his side will not let their season dwindle out ahead of their home clash with Barrow tomorrow. Orient pulled themselves nine points clear of the relegation zone after their 3-1 win at Guiseley on Good Friday but McAnuff highlights that there is still work to be done. Speaking to leytonorient.com “as a footballer you can never rest, I don’t think there ever will be a situation where you can take things for granted and not put 100% in”.

• Sit 13th on 50 points
• League Record – P40  W13  D11  L16  F49  A51
• Form in last six – W2  D2  L2

The 36 year old has been a shinning light for the East Londoners this season and is keen for his side to end the season well stating Head Coach Justin Edinburgh is the right man for it. “We have a manager who is very demanding and rightfully so. He won’t let people slack off, we really want to end the season well, put some performances in and get some good wins”.

• McAnuff has been involved in 15 of Orient’s 64 goals in all competitions (10 assists, 5 goals)

The O’s head into tomorrow’s game after back to back wins after their Easter Monday clash with Maidenhead was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. A brace from McAnuff and a David Mooney goal helped Orient to victory at Guiseley with Head coach Justin Edinburgh described the performance to leytonorient.com as “professional, efficient and controlling the game for longs periods”.

• Home League Record – P20  W6  D6  L8  F28  A24
• One win in last eight games (W1, D3  L4) – 3-0 vs Woking last time out 
• Three of last five home games have been draws
• Eight of 11 wins under Edinburgh have been away
• Orient have only won back to back home matches once since August

Assistant Coach Ross Embleton is keen for his side to look up the league and finish as high as they can following an up and down campaign in E10. Speaking to East London Advertiser “we know it hasn’t been the season everyone wanted to have but at the same time we still need to keep striving to catch teams above us”. A key for the O’s is creating momentum to start next season on the up, a statement Embleton echoes, “we have still got a month of this one left but it is about trying to build so we come back for next season with a good feeling and positivity”.

• Kept 11 league clean sheets (four at home)
• Kept two in their last three games
• First clean sheet at home in six games
• Only conceded once in last three games 
• Not kept back to back home clean sheets since August 2015

McAnuff took his goal tally to five with his brace at Guiseley and feels the back to back wins over sides at the bottom is a big step for his side. Orient have struggled with the expectation to win but after the recent victories, McAnuff is keen for his side to continue tomorrow and next season. Speaking to leytonorient.com “going to Guiseley and winning was a big performance, the mentality to go and win a game we are expected to win, moving forward is going to be key. We have had a year to get to grips with things and to see what the league is about. Handling expectation is massive going forward”.

• Failed to scored in 13 league games
• Scored six in last two games
• Scored in five of the last six home matches (0-1 loss, Torquay, 13/03/18)
• Failed to score in two of their last four games

With extra rest after Monday’s postponement, Embleton illustrates that despite Barrow sitting just outside the relegation zone, Orient will be in for a tough afternoon. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it will be a difficult game, we need to make sure we prepare properly. it is a little bit similar to the Guiseley game, teams we are coming up against are in a difficult position and fighting for lives but we can’t take our foot off the gas, we need to be ruthless and add to their woes”

• Conceded 32/51 league goals in first half 
• 11 between 1-15 mins and 14 between 31-45 minutes
• Seven of the last ten conceded have been in first 15 or last 15 minutes of games
• 14/23 conceded under Edinburgh and nine of the last 14 conceded have been in the second half

Barrow extended their winless run to four games with a 3-1 home defeat to AFC Fylde on Tuesday evening. Nathan Waterston levelled for Barrow after Jonny Smith put Fylde ahead but a third defeat in six games came after Danny Rowe and Serhat Tasdemir netted in the North.

• Sit 20th on 41 points
• League Record – P39  W9  D14  L16  F44  A53
• Form in last six – W1  D2  L3
• Last win 1-0 at Maidenhead, 17/02/18
• Two league wins since Boxing Day, W2  D7  L5

Assistant manager Jamie Day thought his side battled well in the first half but defensive frailties cost his side once more as they sit precariously outside the relegation zone on goal difference.  Speaking to http://www.nwemail.co.uk “It’s the same old story, I thought first half we played really well, pressed them and were on the front foot. But at the minute, we’re giving away some really silly goals. Teams are not earning the goals they are getting and we’re getting punished at the minute”.

• Conceded 32/53 league goals in the second (18/29 away)
• Conceded 12 between 46-60 and 12 between 76-90
• 12 of the last 17 conceded have been in the second half

Barrow’s remaining games

With his side looking over their shoulders at Torquay’s and Solihull’s form, Day knows that if his side are to beat the drop the mistakes need to be eradicated quickly, “if you keep making mistakes like we are then you end up where we are in the league”. Barrow have a busy end of the season run in and Day urged his players to fight for the points they need to survive. Speaking to nwemail.co.uk “I’ve said before everyone has to pull their weight now. In the remaining games everyone’s got to pull their weight, earn the right for the short and get the points we need to get us over the line”.

• Scored 26/44 league goals in the first half
• 13/25 away have been in the first half – including nine between 31-45 minutes – most in division
• Nine of the last 12 scored have been in the first half

Wins are what is needed at the moment for Barrow and Day is clear that his side need to be more ruthless in attack, “it’s catch 22, because we need to be a bit riskier to get the wins but we’re making stupid mistakes and getting punished. Perhaps we’ve got to take more risks going forward, against Boreham Wood and Dover, the final pass let us down when we needed it”.

• Failed to score in 11 league games (four away)
• Failed in two of their last three games
• Scored in four of their last five away matches (0-0, Boreham Wood, 30/03/18)
• Scored in 13 of their last 15 away games
• Not scored more than once since New Years Day – 13 games – 3-3 vs Wrexham

Barrow have kept two clean sheets in their last three games but Day emphasised “we can’t keep relying on clean sheets as a team and not conceding because we are going to concede and we are going to make mistakes. Both ends of the field have got to add to it”.

• Kept nine league clean sheets (five away)
• Kept back to back away clean sheets (both 0-0’s)
• Kept three in last four away games
• Not kept three away clean sheets in a row since 2015

Ady Pennock’s men are definitely better away than at home and in the meeting with Orient, the first goal will be key. The Bluebirds have taken just four points from a possible 51 (17 games) when conceding first with Day clear that his side need to overcome that obstacle. “It’s disappointing that we conceded and then we seem to go into our shell and go on the back foot. Where we are in the league plays a part in that but we’ve got to have character to get us through that and get us through the remaining games”.

• Away League Record – P19  W6  D4  L9  F25  A29
• Unbeaten in last two – W1  D1
• Two wins in last four (1-0 at Maidstone and Maidenhead)
• Nine of the 13 points collected since Boxing Day have come away)
• Their last seven league wins have come away  from home

Team News

Leyton Orient will be without the injured trio of James Dayton, Alex Lawless and Matt Harrold. Charlie Lee has resumed full training and nearing fitness. David Mooney will be pushing for a recall to the starting 11 after netting off the bench at Guiseley last time out.

Dan Jones and Nathan Waterston are hoping to retain their places after they were recalled in Tuesday’s night defeat to AFC Fylde. Asa Hall and Bedsente Gomis dropped out while Jack Barthram, Jordan White and Harry Panayiotou are awaiting their chance to start.

Prediction – Leyton Orient 3-1 Barrow

Leyton Orient assistant coach Ross Embleton knows his side cannot underestimate bottom side Guiseley when they visit Nethermoor Park on Good Friday. Orient have already lost three of seven games against the current bottom four and Embleton wants his side on top of their game. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it’s a game we can’t take for granted in any shape or form. We need to go to Guiseley and be ruthless. Give ourselves an opportunity to pick up three points again”.

• Sit 15th on 47 points – seven above relegation zone
• Form in last six – W1  D2  L3
• League record – P39  W12 D11  L16  F46  A50

The O’s head north after picking up their first win in seven last weekend with a 3-0 victory over Woking.  A brace from top scorer Macauley Bonne and a James Brophy strike secured the win for Orient. Head Coach Justin Edinburgh was delighted with the victory as it was their first at home in 2018. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it was a huge three points, a long time in coming. Obviously in front of a big home crowd today, what we needed to give them, the victory at home which has been a bit elusive of late”.

• Away League Record – P19  W6  D5  L8  F18  A26
• No win in last three – (last time 0-0 at Eastleigh)
• Last win – 1-0 vs Chester, 20/02/2018
• Seven of Orient’s ten win under Edinburgh have been away
• Only lost one of last seven away league fixtures – W5  D1  L1
• Defeat – 1-0 vs Dover, 03/03/2018

Man of the match James Brophy netted the third for Orient and his third of the season. The former Swindon winger is highlighting his potential with a run in the side at left midfield. The 23 year old joined permanently in January and is now finding form, being involved in four of Orient’s last six goals and he is not finished their. Speaking to East London Advertiser “when you play in a wide position further forward, people will look at your tally of goals and assists so I have got to try and add to my game”.

• Orient have failed to score in 13 league games (seven away)
• Scored in one of their last three games
• Failed in two of their last three away matches
• First time Orient have scored two or more in a League match since January – eight games

Another positive for the O’s was keeping back to back clean sheets for the first time since February. Orient named the same back five for the last two matches and defender Joe Widdowson feels his side have felt comfortable at the back. Speaking to leytonorient.com “we are pleased as defenders and a back four with Brillo to keep another clean sheet. We looked quite solid again. We created more chances and took them”.

• Kept 11 league clean sheets – (seven away)
• Back to back clean sheets for the fourth time under Edinburgh
• Three clean sheets in last five away games
• Only conceded one goal in last four away league games

Good Friday’s trip is the first of two games in four days with Orient facing Maidenhead on Easter Monday. Embleton believes that with Guiseley rock bottom and needing the points, it could be a good thing for his side. Speaking to leytonorient.com “with the position they find themselves in, they will have to try and win the game. We are away from home, we can exploit them in certain areas”.

• Conceded 32/50 league goals in the first half – 16/26 away
• 11 between 1-15 minutes, 14 between 31-45 minutes
• Six of their last nine conceded have been in first 15 or last 15 minutes of matches
• 13/22 under Edinburgh and eight of their last 13 have been conceded in second half

Orient are ebbing closer to safety and with seven games to go, Brophy is keen for his side to finish the season in good form. Speaking to East London Advertiser “we want to lay the foundations for next season. We need to finish this year on a high with a good run of results that will lay foundations for pre season”.

• Scored 26/46 league goals in second half
• Six of last nine in league have been in second half

Guiseley head into tomorrow’s clash with Orient 14 points from safety at the bottom of the National League. The Lions game against Torquay last weekend was postponed leaving Sean St Ledger men, a long way from safety.

• Sit 24th on 26 points
• Form in Last six – W1  D1  L4
• One win since Boxing Day – W1  D2  L10 
• League Record – P37  W5  D11  L21  F32  A69

Guiseley’s last game saw them draw 1-1 with Halifax, Kayode Odejayi put them ahead in the first half but Ben Tomlinson levelled the game in the second half for Halifax. Interim manager Sean St Ledger admitted to Guiseleyafc.co.uk “I have to be proud of everyone of my players, we wanted the three points but didn’t get it but we dug out the draw. Last week we went down to ten men and lost, in terms of growth, against the wind and adversity we got a point, the lads were fantastic, I can’t ask for any more”

• Kept just league clean sheets (lowest in League)
• No clean sheet in last three
• Last clean sheet 1-0 vs Fylde, 20/02/18
• One clean sheet in last 13 games in all competitions – conceding 28 goals
• One clean sheet in last nine home games

Former Republic of Ireland defender St Ledger took over at Nethermoor Park in February after Paul Cox departed. The 33 year old will take charge of his sixth game on Friday and he alluded to guiseleyafc.co.uk that his side need to be better in front of goal, “we had many opportunities and we haven’t converted them, if we wasn’t creating them then I would be more worried. We are, we have good strikers and we were unlucky when we hit the post, I can’t ask for any more of the players”.

• Failed to score in 16 league games (eight at home)
• Scored in last two and four of their last five games
• Last failed to score – 4-0 loss, Sutton, 24/02/18
• Scored in last three home games and five of last seven

Despite sitting 14 points from safety, Guiseley still have hope that they can survive the drop as they face several of the teams directly above them in the run in. St Ledger highlighted to wharfedaleobserver “in terms of growth and getting better, we are clearly doing that. We have spoken about taking each game as it comes, until it becomes mathematically impossible, we will keep going”.

Four of five wins against bottom six

Guiseley picked up their first win since Boxing Day in St Ledger’s second game in charge (1-0 vs Fylde, 20/02/2018). Despite battling performances, they need wins in their predicament and St Ledger understands that. Speaking to Yorkshire Post “I cannot ask more in terms of effort, commitment and attitude. Sometimes, in football, you need that little bit of luck and I don’t think we have really had that in the last two games.” He added “I feel a bit for the lads as some of the performances have probably warranted better results”

• Conceded 37/69 league goals in second half 
• Only Torquay (43) have conceded more
• 16/32 first half goals conceded between 31-45 minutes
• Eight of the last 13 conceded been in second half
• Only 32% goals conceded at home – 22/69

With back to back positive results at home, St Ledger is looking to make it three in a row when Orient visit. Speaking to wharfedaleobserver “Leyton Orient are a team that are resurgent under Justin Edinburgh. Their form away from home is very good and it will be a really tough game. They’ve got some really good players in their side” He added “But the last two home games we beat Fylde and we drew with Halifax with 10 men so I’m hoping that we can try and make Nethermoor a bit of a fortress”

• Home League Record – P18  W3  D8  L7  F16  A22
• Only Torquay (14) have taken less points at home
• Only one home win since October 21st – 11 games – W1  D5  L5
• Not gone three unbeaten at home since October

Team News

Alex Lawless, Charlie Lee and James Dayton all remain side lined with injury. Striker Matt Harrold is a doubt with a hamstring injury that he picked up against Woking. Justin Edinburgh could name an unchanged side for the trip.

Guiseley have John Rooney available after his red card against Halifax was overturned. Marcus Williams is available after his loan spell from York ended while recent signins Ellis Hudson and Ben Frempah could make the debuts.

Prediction – Guiseley 0-2 Leyton Orient