Football Analyst

Barnet manager Darren Currie is relishing the visit of league leaders Leyton Orient on Saturday. The Bees head into the London Derby unbeaten in their last five games and Currie is hoping his side can continue against the O’s. Speaking to barnetfc.com “we’re in a good place at the moment, we’re on the back of good performances and results and we’re looking forward to the game”

• Sit 16th on 49 points
• Only lost two of their last eight – W3  D3  L2
• League Record – P38  W13  D10  L15  F36  A44
• Not won back to back games since January

The Bees made it back to back home wins on Tuesday with a 2-0 victory over Aldershot. Second half strikes from Ephron Mason Clark and Shaquile Coulthirst moved them up to 16th. Currie was pleased with his sides result despite not being at their best, speaking to barnetfc.com “obviously to keep another clean sheet is important, epitomized by Elliot’s last ditch block there, we want to keep clean sheet’s, it’s so pleasing at the moment. Took two fantastic goals and it’s really pleasing”

• Kept 13 league clean sheets (six at home)
• Kept four consecutive clean sheets
• Not conceded in last 378 minutes of football
• Kept three in a row at home
• Only conceded more than one goal in one of their last eight games

It has been a up and down season for the Bees after their relegation from the football league last year. Currie was appointed permanently in January after a spell in temporary charge and was delighted his side found a way to earn victory against Aldershot. Speaking to barnetfc.com “we are slowly getting, there are still bit we want to improve on. It’s a great result, the performance not as good. There has been the odd game where we have pieced it all together, at least tonight when performance was not as good as it could have been. We managed to find a way of winning”.

Barnet’s Last Six Results

Striker Mason Clark grabbed his second goal in his last six games on Tuesday and is loving his time under Currie. The 19 year old has scored all of his goals since Currie took over and feels he is improving under the former Barnet midfielder. Speaking to barnetfc.com on Currie, “with the gaffer, he’s been really good. Especially as he understands the lifestyle of a wide player. So to be working with him day in, day out, it’s helping me to settle at this level”.

• Third lowest scorers – only Maidstone (30) and Aldershot (31) have scored fewer
• Failed to score in 14 league games (five at home)
• Scored in two of last three games
• Scored in four of their last five home games
• Only been three goals in last four Barnet games

With the Bees sitting in mid table and 11 points above the relegation zone, they look set to be playing in the fifth tier next season. With nothing seemingly to play for, Currie is looking ahead to the next campaign and is looking for his side to take some momentum into pre season. Speaking to barnetfc.com “we have got to do both, I have got plans going on in my head about pre season and next season. Without taking my eye off the ball for the last eight games. These last eight games, no foot off the pedal we want to win all eight, we want to finish the season strong and carry momentum into pre season”.

• Only scored two or more goals in two of the last 11 games
• Scored 19/36 league goals in first half
• But 14 of their 22 home goals have been in second half
• Conceded 50% of their goals in final 30 minutes of matches (22/44)

Barnet have already beaten two of the top six at the Hive this season and despite Orient’s form, Currie is looking forward to his side taking on the league leaders. Speaking to barnetfc.com “they are a good side, credit to everyone involved there. I know Justin, he’s a good guy and Ross Embleton. They have good people and have had a very good season, got themselves to Trophy Final aswell. We know we are in for a really tough game, they’re a team in good form but so are we, it’s all set for a good game”.

• Home League Record – P20  W7  D6  L7  F22  A23
• Won last two home games
• Unbeaten in last five games – W3  D2
• One defeat in last seven – W4  D2  L1
• 55% of their league points collected at home

Head to Head – Barnet 7, Draw 8, Leyton Orient 10

The Last Nine Meetings

• Barnet have won two of the last four meetings – W2  D1  L1
• Barnet have scored in three of the last four meetings
• Barnet are unbeaten at the Hive against Orient – W1  D1

Last Time Out – 26/03/2019 – Barnet 2-0 Aldershot

Starting 11 vs Aldershot

Prediction – Barnet 0-1 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient first team Coach Danny Webb has urged his side to continue their winning run when they visit Barnet on Saturday. The O’s made it eight consecutive victories on Tuesday moving two points clear at the top. With just eight games remaining Webb highlights it is important they don’t let up. Speaking to the O’s Show “we carried on the momentum on Tuesday with the atmosphere, we will take well over 1000 to Barnet, we go again. That’s what successful teams do, keep things going. It’s the most important bit now”.

• Sit 1st on 76 points – two point lead over Solihull 
• Only lost one of their last 12 games – W10  D1  L1
• League Record – P38  W22  D10  L6  F63  A28

Orient’s 2-0 victory over AFC Fylde on Tuesday came courtesy of first half goals from Marvin Ekpiteta and a MacAuley Bonne penalty. Head Coach Justin Edinburgh was delighted with his side performance stating to leytonorient.com “we come off the back of a tough enduring game on Saturday where we were down to ten men for long periods. It didn’t show in our start to the game. Our first half performance allowed us to control the second half and restrict Fylde to very few chances”.

Orient’s Last Six Results

Midfielder Craig Clay has been an ever present this season and is building a partnership alongside Jobi McAnuff in central midfield. The O’s grabbed two goals in the opening 30 minutes which helped to settle any nerve. Clay praised his sides ruthlessness in front of goal stating to leytonorient.com “it was professional and efficient. I think you could tell from the first five minutes when Koroma was getting at them. Macca was getting at them, they were their for the taking”.

• Opened the scoring in first half of five of the last seven games
• Failed to score in eight league games (three away)
• Scored in last eight games – netting 15 goals
• Scored in 11 of their last 12 games

Orient’s challenge for promotion has been built on a solid foundation at the back along with their free flowing football in attack. Clay praised the squad’s desire and doing the hard work in recent week. Speaking to leytonorient.com ” when we get it down and play, it’s a pleasure to watch. I’m sure it is for the fans watching. We showed Saturday we can dig deep and defend, our defenders heading everything away. Everyone’s putting the work in”.

• Best defensive record in league
• Kept 16 league clean sheets (five away)
• Kept two in last three games
• Kept three in last five games
• No clean sheet in last seven away games
• Not kept back to back league clean sheets since 1st January

The O’s sit in pole position at the top of the National League, two points clear and games in hand on their promotion rivals. However with just four points separating the top four, Edinburgh is taking nothing for granted with the end of season run in. Speaking to nationalleague.com “it’s certainly not over. There’s a lot of football to be played, a lot of twists and turns with a lot of good clubs challenging for that top spot. There’s too many games to be played for it to be over, we’ve got a very difficult run in aswell”. 

Orient are set to sell out their away allocation at the Hive tomorrow and Webb feels that despite Barnet sitting in mid table they will be looking to put the cat amongst the pidgeon in the O’s camp. Speaking to the O’s Show “Barnet seem in a similar position to what we were last year. They had a bit of a blip and now they are finding some form. Darren has gone in and done ever so well by all accounts. I don’t think they have much to play for now but in front of a big crowd, they will clearly want to cause an upset”.

• Away League Record – P19  W10  D6  L3  F31  A17
• Won last five, 1st time since September 2013 – F11  A6
• Unbeaten in last four league games – W3  D1
• One defeat in last nine away – W7  D1  L1

With their FA Trophy run, Orient have faced a heavy set of fixtures in March with Saturday being their eighth of the month but that has coincided with their run of form. Despite playing three games a week, Clay feels the heavy work load actually helps his side. Speaking to leytonorient.com “I think we’re better when we’ve got a busy schedule, you tick games off and get momentum  which is hard to stop us. It’s like the start of the season. We’re looking forward to it, we’re winning games, it’s eight wins on the bounce, everyone is confident. We’re looking forward to the busy schedule”.

• Scored in seven of their last eight league games
• Scored in last six away games
• Scored 37/63 league goals in second half (16/31 away)
• Scored 27 goals after the 60th minute

Team News

Jamie Turley will be assessed after being taken off on Tuesday with a hamstring injury. Jordan Maguire-Drew, Myles Judd and Sam Ling all remain out. Jay Simpson returns the squad from injury while Matt Harrold serves the second game of his three match ban.

Edinburgh on squad to guardian series “I think we possibly will rotate the squad, but I’ll always go off my own players and I’ve got to trust them. I trust them to tell me if they’re fine. If I feel they should play then they will”.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 10, Draw 8, Barnet 7

The Last Nine Meetings

• Orient have only won one of the last four meetings between sides – W1 D1 L2
• Orient have failed to score in two visits to the Hive
• Both teams have scored in only two of the last seven meetings

Last Time Out – 26/03/2019 – Leyton Orient 2-0 AFC Fylde

Starting 11 vs Fylde

Prediction – Barnet 0-1 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient head coach Justin Edinburgh insists his side will be raring to go against AFC Fylde on Tuesday evening. The O’s booked their spot in the FA Trophy Final on Saturday but after celebrating the success, the 49 year old was eager to put that at the side ahead of the end of season run in. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it’s an excellent achievement but we park that to the side. It’s vitally important to solely concentrate on the task ahead, I know the group and that’s what their already talking about”.

• Sit 1st on 73 points
• One loss in last 11 games – W9  D1  L1
• Best Defensive Record in league
• League Record – P37  W21  D10  L6  F61  A28

Orient sealed their spot at Wembley with a 2-1 victory at AFC Telford. Matt Harrold set them on their way before being sent off in the first half. Ellis Deeney leveled the scores on the day before defender Josh Coulson headed his third goal in his last three games to seal victory for Orient. Edinburgh stated to BBC London after the victory “it’s been immense, everything that typifies this group today we had in abundance, character, resilience, togetherness, we were up against it”.

Orient’s Last Six Results

It was Orient’s seventh win in a row and sets them up perfectly for the final month of the season. The O’s still sit top with two games in hand after their promotion rivals all slipped up on Saturday and Edinburgh highlights his side have to ruthless. Speaking to BBC London “I’ve never known a league like this, so many teams vying for the automatic place. It  gives us a bit of breathing space after mixing two weekends of league action but we have to capitalise on it now”.

Top Seven in National League

The O’s played with ten men for over an hour on Saturday and despite defending for the majority of the second half they grabbed victory. Edinburgh’s side are now unbeaten in their last five games down to ten men and he was quick to praise the collective effort. Speaking to leytonorient.com “we always knew with what we had in the dressing room we can deal with these situations and scenarios. You can stand and coach but these players have got to carry out that and they certainly done that today. The game plan in the second half, they did everything we asked of them putting their bodies on the line’.

• Kept 15 league clean sheets (ten at home)
• Kept two clean sheets in last three games
• One clean sheet in last six league games
• Four clean sheets in last five home games

Coulson was promoted and won the FA Trophy with Cambridge United back in 2014 was delighted to grace the Wembley pitch once more. The 30 year old who extended his tally to six for the season on Saturday highlighted that despite the excitement of the final, their main aim still remains. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it’s Wembley, the national stadium, it means everything, as a footballer it’s the pinnacle to play at Wembley, I can’t explain it. But we have got some business to do before that and we need to carry on with that”.

• Home League Record – P18  W11  D4  L3  F30  A11
• Only Halifax (9) have conceded fewer
• Won last two games – both 1-0
• Won four of their last five
• Only lost two of their last 14 home games – W10  D2  L2

Edinburgh’s men are on the longest winning run since December 2012 and the former Newport manager feels that the semi final win could be the extra boost his side need. Edinburgh is seeking a second promotion into the Football League after being promoted with Newport in 2013 and with nine games left he knows it will take a big effort. Speaking to BBC London “it’s going to take everything we’ve got, we have got a good squad, incredible togetherness but it’s today we hope the momentum and feeling we can use as that extra edge going into the final run in. Looking at this to really spur us on and take us a step closer to where we want to be”.

Orient’s Next Six Fixtures

Tuesday’s meeting with AFC Fylde is a prequel to the FA Trophy final after the Coasters beat Stockport on Saturday. The O’s beat Fylde back in November and Edinburgh is aware his side need to at 100% if they are to pick up victory. Speaking to BBC London “they are a very good team, we went there and won earlier in the season and we have to be at our best. We are confident that’s seven consecutive victories now, I’d like to think we are hitting form at the right time”.

• Failed to score in eight league games (five at home)
• Scored in their last seven games – netting 13 goals
• Scored in ten of their last 11 games
• Scored in last two home games and five of their last seven at Breyer Group Stadium

Team News

Matt Harrold serves the first of his three games suspension following his red card on Saturday. Jordan Maguire-Drew, Sam Ling and Myles Judd remain injured while Jay Simpson and James Dayton could be back involved.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 2, Draw 0, AFC Fylde 1

The Three Meetings Between Sides

• MacAuley Bonne has been involved in Orient’s last four goals
• Danny Rowe has netted all three goals for Fylde

Last Time Out – 23/03/2019 – AFC Telford 1-2 Leyton Orient

Starting 11 vs Telford

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-1 AFC Fylde

AFC Fylde manager Dave Challinor urged his side to be put their FA Trophy Semi Final victory behind them. The Coasters travel to League Leaders Leyton Orient on Tuesday with the chance to cut the gap to just three points. Speaking to afcfylde.co.uk “I’ll enjoy tonight, they have got to be professional and do things right. They have an opportunity at the end of the season to celebrate with hopefully more success. Today is about recovering making sure we replicate the same elation on Tuesday evening”.

• Sit 5th on 67 points
• Unbeaten in their last seven games – W4  D3
• One defeat in last 14 matches – W8 D5  L1
• League Record – P37  W18  D13  L6  F63  A32

Fylde’s Last Six Results

Fylde booked their place at Wembley with a 3-2 win at Stockport on Saturday. Nyal Bell put Stockport ahead before a Danny Rowe penalty and Ryan Croasdale strike put them in control. Ash Palmer equalised late on but Alex Reid’s strike earned their victory. Croasdale spoke to afcfylde.co.uk “it’s probably the best performance we’ve had this season and to do it under the pressure of the semi final is a credit to the lads”.

• Away League Record – P18  W5  D10  L3  F24  A16
• Only 37% points have been collected away
• Unbeaten in last five games – W2  D3
• One defeat in last eight games – W3  D4  L1
• Only won one of last four away league matches – W1  D2  L1  F6  A6

The Coasters trailed for a long spell on Saturday before top scorer Danny Rowe levelled. Despite being a goal down, Challinor was delighted with his sides performance, mentality and character to pick up the victory. Speaking to afcfylde.co.uk “I thought we were fantastic, I really thought we dominated the game, territorially but we gave a sloppy goal away. We got an equaliser then got ourselves in front but disappointed to concede from a set piece. But we showed unbelievable amounts of character to get the winner”.

• Failed to score in nine league games – (five away)
• Scored in four of their last five games – netting ten goals
• Scored in last four league games – 13 goals
• Scored in last 12 away games
• Scored 37/63 league goals in second half (13/24 away)
• Eight of their last 12 league goals have been netted in second period

Challinor who has been with the Coasters since 2011 was brimming with pride about taking his side to Wembley. The 43 year old has guided them to three promotions in his tenure described it “biggest honour in management”. Speaking to afcfylde.co.uk “it was amazing, very emotional after the game, I am bursting with pride for me to take my team to Wembley and walk them out at Wembley will be my biggest honour in management. They had the opportunity to make it happen and I am thankful for it. To watch them at the greatest stadium in the world would be absolutely fantastic’.

• Kept 15 league clean sheets (six away)
• One clean sheets in last five games
• Two in last six games – both 0-0 draws
• No clean sheet in last seven league games (last 2-0 win over Wrexham, 19th January)
• Kept one in last nine league matches
• Conceded 22/32 league goals in second half – 12/16 away goal
• Four of the last six league goals conceded have been in second period

Fylde are right in the mix for promotion with their rivals all dropping on Saturday. The Coasters along with Orient have at least two games in hand on teams in and around them and Challinor is keen for his side to fully concentrate on the remaining league games. Speaking to afcfylde.co.uk “we have showed throughout the season we can put it to the background. Today we can focus on when it comes around, the players have an opportunity to show what they can do and showcase their talents. We have to look forward to that”.

Top Seven in National League

Team News

Dave Challinor is expected to make some changes to his side. Jordan Tunnicliffe should be fit despite suffering a broken nose on Saturday. Dan Bradley, Ash Hemmings and Lewis Walters are all back after being cup tied against Stockport. Serhat Tasdemir is still away with Azerbaijan U19’s.

Head to Head – AFC Fylde 1, Draw 0, Leyton Orient 2

The Three Meetings Between Sides

• Danny Rowe has scored all three goals in the fixtures all coming from outside the box

Last Time Out – 23/03/2019 – Stockport County 2-3 AFC Fylde

Starting 11 vs Stockport

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-1 AFC Fylde

AFC Telford captain Shane Sutton is confident his side can overturn their semi final deficit against Leyton Orient on Saturday. The Bucks trail 1-0 from the first leg but with an expected sell out home crowd behind them, the 30 year old is raring to go. Speaking to Shropshire Star “we’re very confident, it’s only half time, 1-0 down, and the good thing is that we know exactly what we’re up against”.

• 7th in National League North
• Back to back defeats first time since December 2018
• Won three of their last six – W3  D1  L2

Telford’s Run in Trophy 2018/2019

MacAuley Bonne struck in the 54th minute to hand Orient a slender advantage heading into the second leg. Manager Gavin Cowan was happy with sides performance ensuring they have all to play for on Saturday. Speaking to telfordunited.co.uk “the objective to the players was to be in the lead or the tie. We achieved that, it’s 1-0 at half time. It’s the joy of being over two legs”.

Telford’s Last Six Results

With 30 league places separating the two sides, Cowan has urged his players to be fearless at the New Bucks Head. Orient are top of the National League and the 37 year old is hoping his side can play the underdog card to their advantage. Speaking to telfordunited.co.uk “we have nothing to fear, there is no expectation on us, no-one could even have imagined us to come through this. We can play with courage and freedom, all the pressure is on Leyton Orient. Anything we achieve after this is dream stuff, we’ve got real belief in the camp”.

• Kept just five clean sheets all season
• No clean sheet in last ten games – conceding 19 goals
• One clean sheet in last 21 games (26/01/2019 – Southport 0-4 AFC Telford)

The Bucks were backed by 429 supporters in the first leg and with it set to be their biggest game as a club since their reformation in 2004. A bumper crowd is expected to hopefully see them defy the odds and Cowan has insisted on the home supporters to push them on. Speaking to Shropshire Star “we really wanted the community to come and back us, they have done just that. The support for the first leg was unbelievable and we’re going to need them to make themselves heard again. It is going to be great to see New Bucks Head packed out with the supporters”.

• Kept one clean sheet in last eight cup games
• Kept just one in last nine FA Trophy games
• Without a clean sheet in last nine home games

Defender Sutton who has been with the Bucks since 2017 is relishing the visit of Orient and is hoping his side can use their home advantage. Despite the Bucks only playing one of their six trophy matches at home this season, Sutton is confident his side can overcome the deficit if they play to their best. Speaking to Shropshire Star “it’s a game we’re looking forward to. Look at our home form, I don’t think it’s been an easy place to come this year. As long as we can have that intensity and tempo which we have had at home, I am sure it will be an interesting game”.

• Home Record This Season – P19  W12  D4  L3  F35  A22
• Won both home cup this season
• Only won one of their last four home games – W1  D1  L2
• Won five of their last eight home games
• Only lost one of their last four home Trophy games – W2  D1  L1

Cowan admitted his side were reserved in the last 20 minutes in the first leg as they were looking to remain in the tie. Despite the O’s holding the advantage Cowan highlights that both sides will be going for the victory and playing on the front foot. Speaking to East London Advertiser “we have to set up to win the game, ultimately Orient will do the same. I can’t imagine Justin will be very reserved coming to us and I know we will be all guns blazing”.

• Failed to score in six games all season – two at home
• Only failed to score in one of their last 11 games
• Scored in their last three home games
• Scored in eight of their last nine home games

Telford will have to defy the odds tomorrow because the last 21 sides holding a first leg lead have gone on to the make the final. After coming up against the Orient already, Cowan is excited about the second leg and is not expecting any surprises. Speaking to Shropshire Star “we’re pretty set on where we want to be and how we want to approach. We know plenty about them already but the players are fully aware of what’s ahead of them now” He added “it’s going to be tough. But it is one we are thoroughly looking forward to, we can’t wait”.

• Scored in seven of their eight cup games this season
• Scored in seven of their last ten Trophy games
• Scored two or more in five of their last seven games
• Scored two or more in five of their last eight home games

Team News

Goalkeeper Josef Bursik and striker Marcus Dinanga are both cup tied while Henry Cowans is out with a knee injury. Steph Morley is a doubt after coming off at Orient last weekend. Brendon Daniels could replace Morely while Dom Smith is pushing for a start after returning from his loan spell.

Last Time Out – Leyton Orient 1-0 AFC Telford, 16/03/2019

Starting 11 vs Leyton Orient

Prediction – AFC Telford 1-1 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient head coach Justin Edinburgh knows his side have to be at their best to book their place at Wembley on Saturday. The O’s lead AFC Telford 1-0 after the first leg but Edinburgh is not taking anything for granted at New Bucks Head. Speaking to O’s Show “we are no way taking anything lightly, we’re not taking our eye of it, it’s half time and we’ve got a slender lead. We go there confident , we’re on a very good run and we want to continue that”.

• Sit 1st in National League
• Only lost one of their last ten games – W8  D1  L1

FA Trophy 2018/2019

MacAuley Bonne ended his 49 day spell without a goal by grabbing the decisive goal in the victory over Telford last Saturday. The 23 year old was glad to be back amongst the goals and stated to leytonorient.com “we’re 1-0 up, there’s one more game to go. I’m feeling confident about the second leg, beating them and taking it to Wembley”.

Orient’s Last Six Results

Holding the lead going into the second leg, captain Jobi McAnuff praised his sides mindset against Telford. It was Orient’s third match against a National League North side and the 37 year old highlight the importance of taking a lead into the second leg. Speaking to @danny_dannyd “it was important for us to win, ideally we would like another goal or two. I’m pleased with how we played overall, we approached the game with a real good mentality. We were guilty of not doing so in last round. It pleasing from my point of view, our attitude was spot on and we need the same next week”.

Jobi McAnuff interview – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9jf8XMtpnM

• Kept 19 clean sheets this season 
• Kept four clean sheets in five FA Trophy games this season
• Kept two in their last three matches (both 1-0 wins)
• Without a clean sheet in last six away games

The O’s travel to Telford on the back of six consecutive wins in all competitions and striker Matt Harrold wants to keep the winning feeling going. The 34 year old has played in every round so far and feels his side have the perfect balance in the changing room to get the job done. Speaking to the O’s Show “we are full of confidence as a team. We are in  good place. It’s about keeping the momentum going, keep good habits and staying grounded to get us over the line. We have got everything needed it is”

• Harrold has been involved in three of Orient’s nine Trophy goals this season

Orient still sit top of the National League with nine games to go while being 90 minutes from a Wembley trip. McAnuff highlights that with a potential of two celebrations at the end of the season, Edinburgh has been hammering into the side that chances like this needed to be taken. Speaking to @danny_dannyd “he has been the real driving force behind everything that goes on, reinforcing these opportunities don’t come that often. For people in the game opportunities are few and far between whatever level you play at. To be part of a season like this and achieve something so great means you have got that bond with people”

• Failed to score in nine games this season
• Scored in last six games – netting 11 goals 
• Scored in nine of their last ten games in all competitions
• Scored in last five away games and six of their last seven away games

With an expected sell out crowd at New Bucks Head on Saturday, Orient know there will be a fantastic atmosphere created. Orient’s winning run has been backed up with four away wins in a row and Harrold is confident his side can book a place at Wembley in May with victory number five. Speaking to O’s Show “it is going to be very tough going up there but as I’m sure the fans have seen we are a team with a lot of character who can deal with things. I’m looking forward to the weekend and hopefully keep the winning run going”.

• Away Record This Season – P22  W12  D6  L4  F34  A20
• Won five of their last seven games – W5  D1  L1
• Only lost one of their six FA Trophy away games – W5  L1
• Only lost two of their last eight away cup games – W5  D2  L2

McAnuff interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9jf8XMtpnM

Team News

Jordan Maguire-Drew and Myles Judd remain injured while Jay Simpson and Sam Ling are doubts. Josh Koroma and James Dayton should play some part after returning from injury in recent weeks. Joe Widdowson should return after missing the first leg while Charlie Lee could be back involved.

Last Time Out – Leyton Orient 1-0 AFC Telford, 16/03/2019

Starting 11 vs AFC Telford

Prediction – AFC Telford 1-1 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient midfielder James Brophy insists his side will be fully focused when they host AFC Telford in the FA Trophy Semi Final on Saturday. The O’s sit top of the National League, three points clear but with Wembley in sight, the 24 year old is keen to continue their fine form. Speaking to the O’s Show “the gaffer has always stressed it’s a cup that we’re in to win. It’s a good distraction, we’ve got good momentum from the last few results. We hope to carry it through to the cup then get back to the league afterwards”.

• Won their last five games in all competitions
• Only lost one of their last nine games – W7  D1  L1
• 30 League places between sides

Route to Semi Final

The O’s maintained top spot with a 2-1 victory at Aldershot on Tuesday. A brace from center back Josh Coulson set them on their way before a Scott Rendell penalty made the closing stages edgy but they hung on for victory. Head coach Justin Edinburgh was thrilled with the three points but admitted to leytonorient.com “we’re not making it easy for ourselves, which is a concern. We’re obviously delighted with the three points but the ending to our last three away games is not how we wanted to finish games, so it’s something we have to address”.

Orient’s Last Six Results

Telford will be the third side from National League North Orient would have faced in the trophy. The O’s had to come from behind at Brackley in the previous round and Edinburgh is fully aware of the challenge that the Bucks will bring on Saturday. Speaking to Non-League Paper “we go into it fully prepared and understanding of the difficulty of the game. We’d never ever be complacent or disrespectful. We’re only one league above them”. 

• Kept 18 clean sheets this season (12 at home)
• Kept just one in last seven games (1-0 Wrexham, 09/03/2019)
• Kept three in their four Trophy games this season
• Kept four in their last six home games

Saturday’s clash with Telford will be Orient’s fifth game of a hectic month. After playing in midweek, defender Marvin Ekpiteta is keen to continue their winning run against the Bucks and has urged the fans to push them onto Wembley. Speaking to East London Advertiser “we will need the fans in the next two legs then hopefully for the final if we get there. Playing Saturday, Tuesday is good because it can help you build momentum and the way we are going, we just need to keep going”.

• Failed to score in nine games all season
• Scored in last five games (10 in total)
• Scored in eight of their last nine games
• Scored in three of their last four home games
• Scored two or more goals in four of their last five games

With the Semi final settled over two legs, Edinburgh is keen for his side to use home advantage to hopefully take a lead with them next weekend. The O’s have seen sides sit deep when they visit the Breyer Group Stadium this season and it could be a similar story tomorrow. Speaking to Non-League Paper “being at home first, we’ll look to take an advantage away, I guess Gavin will be saying to them ‘make sure you’ll in the tie”. He added “I think you have to be mindful that it is not won or lost in the first leg”.

• Home Record this Season – P20  W13  D4  L3  F35  A11
• Won three of their last four
• Unbeaten in last five home cup games – W4  D1 
• Last defeat – 09/08/2016 – Leyton Orient 2-3 Fulham (EFL Cup)
• Only lost two of their last 13 home games – W9  D2  L2

Edinburgh is no stranger to FA Trophy progress after being a losing finalist with Newport County back in 2012. Despite Orient’s tilt focus on promotion, the 49 year old is maintaining his aim to win the Trophy. Speaking to Non-League Paper “I said to the players at the start of the season that it was a competition that we can realistically had a look at winning. We’re two games away now. I’ve always said that for me as a manager in the conference, it’s been a good competition and one I’ve always enjoyed”.

Team News

Midfielder Jordan Maguire-Drew is out with a calf injury alongside defender Myles Judd. Striker Jay Simpson is out with a hamstring strain so Matt Harrold should keep his place.  James Dayton should play a part after returning from injury at Aldershot while Josh Koroma should be involved in the squad.

Last Time Out – 12/03/2019 – Aldershot 1-2 Leyton Orient

Starting 11 vs Aldershot

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-1 AFC Telford

AFC Telford manager Gavin Cowen is urging his side to turn up on the big occasion when they visit National League leaders, Leyton Orient in the FA Trophy Semi Final. The Bucks head to E10 before the return leg at New Bucks Head next weekend. After knocking out National League opposition on their way to the Semi Final, Cowen is hoping to do it again. Speaking to telfordunited.com “on our day if we do thing right and prepare right, we’re a tough task for anyone”

• Won three of last five games – W3  D1  L1
• Won all five trophy games this season and six of seven cup games
• 30 League Places between sides

Route to Semi Final

The Bucks head to East London on the back of a 3-1 home defeat to FC United of Manchester last weekend. Goals from Dominic McHale, Kurt Willoughly and Tom Peers secured the victory for FC despite a late Ellis Deeney penalty. Cowen was left frustrated with his sides performance questioning his side’s want to win. Speaking to telfordunited.com “I think we were poor in the defensive transition, we perhaps underestimated them. Credit to them they came and played with freedom, no fear and were the better side today. Hard work and desire was the difference, not something I can say very often”

Telford’s Last Six Results

The Bucks sit seventh in National League North and Cowen highlighted the need for a reaction against Orient on Saturday. It was their first defeat in five games and the 37 year old ensured he kept perspective on his sides achievements this season. Speaking to telfordunited.com “let’s have it right, 95% of the season the players have been pretty brilliant. It’s about the players reactions now and how they react. We need to bounce back and be men, put it to one side and focus on making sure individually and collectively we are ready to take on probably the best team in Non-League”

Telford in National League North

The Bucks’s run to the Semi Finals is rather out of character for the Shorpshire side who have only passed the second round stage, once in the last nine seasons. Telford reached the semi finals back in 2009 but lost out to York City and Cowen highlights the added motivation of Wembley is exciting his side. Speaking to Non-League Paper “a Wembley final isn’t something that comes around in your lifetime very often. It adds to the anticipation of it all and gives both clubs even more motivation to win the tie”.

Telford’s Last Ten Seasons in Trophy

Telford dispatched promotion chasing Solihull Moors in the Quarter Finals and will be hoping to add Leyton Orient to their list over the next two games. Midfielder Ellis Deeney who’s brother Troy will be playing in the FA Cup quarter finals this weekend illustrates that the whole squad is fighting for a place in the starting 11. Speaking to Shropshire Star “I think it is one of them games where we have the hunger anyway. It is massive and everyone wants to play it will be tense throughout the week with everyone trying their best to get into the side”.

• Kept just five clean sheets all season (three away)
• Without clean sheet in last nine games – conceding 18 goals
• Only kept one clean sheet in last 20 games – 26/01/2019 – Southport 0-4 Telford
• No clean sheet in last six away games
• Just one clean sheet in last 11 away games

The O’s have hit form at the right stage of the season and head in winning their last five games. The Bucks enjoyed a free week to fully concentrate on Orient with Cowen stating to Shropshire Star “it gives us a chance to lick our wounds and make sure we get back doing what we can”. Orient sit top of National League and are hunting for a place in the Football League with Cowen highlighting his side will need to at their best, “we know against Leyton Orient we have to bring our A Game because they are one of the best if not the best side in Non-League”.

• Failed to score in five games all season (two home)
• Scored in last ten games
• Only failed to score in one of last 19 games all competitions
• Scored in all seven cup games this season
• Scored in seven of their last nine trophy games

Telford travel to the O’s having won all four away trophy games this season. With the Semi final settled over two legs and with the home leg second, Cowen is confident his side will cause Orient problems. Cowen revealed he used to watch games at Brisbane Road as a young lad and is looking forward to return their as a manager. Speaking to Non-League Paper “It’s a fantastic tie, I’m sure there will be an unbelievable crowd at Brisbane Road, a place I know well. I’m really looking forward to going back”

• Away Record this Season – P22  W9  D5  L8  F36  A35
• Unbeaten in last three games – W2  D1
• Only lost two of their last nine games – W6  D1  L2
• Won six of their last eight trophy games – W6  L2

Team News

Goalkeeper Josef Bursik and striker Marcus Dinanga are cup tied. Henry Cowans is out with a knee injury. Andy Wycherley is set to start between the sticks after recovering from an eye injury.

Last Time Out – 09/03/2019 – AFC Telford 1-3 FC United of Manchester

Starting 11 vs FC United Of Manchester

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-1 AFC Telford

Aldershot manager Gary Waddock is relishing the visit of league leaders Leyton Orient on Tuesday night. The Shots sit seven points from safety at the bottom of the National League and Waddock is hoping his side can raise their game ahead of the visit of the O’s. Speaking to theshots.co.uk “we are going into a great game Tuesday night against a team sitting top of the table and it’s one we are looking forward to. We need everything we have to get a result”.

• Sit 22nd on 32 points
• One win in last 21 games in all competitions – W1  D8  L12
• Taken just seven points from last 14 games 
• League Record – P36  W8  D8  L20  F28  A58

The Shots fell to back to back defeats with a 2-1 loss at Barrow on Saturday. Dior Angus put Barrow ahead before Adam McDonnell levelled looking to have earnt a point before a stoppage time penalty from John Rooney snatched the points away from Aldershot. Waddock stated to shots.co.uk “we’re fighting for our lives, you can absolutely see that in the way the players approached the game. Decisions changes to course of the games and so do chances”. 

Aldershot’s Last Six Results

Aldershot conceded two second half penalties which Waddock decided not to comment on post match. The Shots called upon Matt Cole to save the first before Rooney dispatched the second in added time. Waddock stated to theshots.co.uk “all the planning and preparation that has gone into all of our fixtures. The players equipped themselves extremely well, we put a game plan in place. Everyone to a man executed it extremely well but we can only control we you can control”.

• Kept nine league clean sheets (six at home)
• No clean sheet in last two
• Two in last eight games
• Without a clean sheet in last four at home
• Only Braintree 68, Havant & Waterlooville 66 and Maidstone 62 have conceded more league goals

Aldershot face a fight to stay in the division while Orient are fighting to leave the division. Following the weekend’s results, both sides head into the clash in contrasting moods but Waddock is hoping his side can build on their performance at Barrow. Speaking to theshots.co.uk “from their side they got a big result against a team who are in and around them looking for promotion and they went top, a massive boost. From our side, it was very upsetting, disappointing and frustrating. The manner in how we played was very encouraging. There are different emotions for both clubs and we are really looking forward to it”.

• Failed to score in 18 league games – most in National League
• League lowest scorers with just 28 goals
• Scored in two of their last three games
• Only scored twice in last 450 minutes of football
• Scored in just two of their last nine home matches
• Only scored five goals in last 10 games

Waddock’s men earned a draw against the O’s back in November and the former Wycombe man revealed he may be considering using the same formation. In similar circumstances, Orient headed into the game beating Wrexham while Aldershot lost to Barrow. Speaking to theshots.co.uk “when we went there, we played well on the evening, our formation and set up was right especially against a team like Orient with the personnel they’ve got. It was an encouraging formation, I will have a look at it again today and possibly go with it again”.

Aldershot formation at Orient back in November

• Conceded 34/58 league goals in the second half (15/22 at home)
• Conceded 26 after the 60th minute in matches (13/22 at home)
• Eight of their last 13 goals have been scored after the 60th minute

Points will be the top of Waddock’s agenda against the O’s but it is a tough week for the Shots who host Salford on Saturday. With just ten games the 46 year old knows that his side face a battle to stay in the division but has urged the supporters to create a positive mood ahead of the visit of Orient. Speaking to theshots.co.uk “there has to be a positive vibe around the place, we are trying to fight and scrap, we saw it on Saturday. A group of players trying their best on Saturday. We’re up against a very good Orient team on Tuesday night. Would be nice if we can be more vocal than them, they will have a good following”.

• Home League Record – P18  W6  D4  L8  F15  A22
• 68% league points collected at home
• Lost their last four games
• Winless in last 10 – D4  L6
• One win in last 12 at home
• Last win – 03/11/2018 – Aldershot 1-0 Braintree

Team News

George Fowler, Lewis Kinsella and James Rowe all remain sidelined with injury. Scott Rendell should return the squad after serving the second game of his suspension on Saturday. Reece Grant and Will Manion could return after sitting out the defeat at Barrow.

Head to Head – Aldershot 19, Draw 19, Leyton Orient 16

The Last Seven Meetings Between the Sides

• Three of the last five meetings have ended in draws
• Aldershot have only won two of the last 16 meetings between sides – W2  D9  L5
• 6 of the last 9 meetings have seen two or more goals
• Aldershot are winless in their last seven away games – D3  L4
• 9 of the last 10 league meetings have seen both teams score

Last Time Out – Barrow 2-1 Aldershot, 09/03/2019

Starting 11 vs Barrow

Prediction – Aldershot 0-2 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff is relishing his sides top of the table clash with Wrexham on Saturday. The O’s sit two points behind the Welsh outfit knowing with victory they can leapfrog them into top spot. In front of the BT Sport cameras McAnuff acknowledges the size of the game to nationalleague.co.uk “you have to embrace these big games. We know it’s a big one and we’re going into it on the back of a couple of really encouraging results and we’re getting back to what we were”.

• Sit 2nd on 67 points – two behind leaders Wrexham
• Only lost one of their last seven games in all competitions – W5  D1  L1
• League Record – P35  W19  D10  L6  F58  A27

The O’s made it back to back league wins for the first time since November on Tuesday with a 3-2 victory at Barrow. Sam Ling, Jay Simpson and Jordan Maguire-Drew put them 3-0 up, but a late Josh Coulson own goal and a Rhys Turner strike made it a nervy finish. Head coach Justin Edinburgh stated to leytonorient.com “obviously from three goals ahead, being in control of the game, just a but of eradicate defending and not remain calm or composed. We could have in the end drew the game, it would have been a travesty but we should have been out of sight”.

Orient’s Last Six Results

After their progression in the FA Trophy, Tuesday’s victory at Barrow was vital to continue their push for promotion being their game in hand. Despite having a three goal lead with 20 minutes to go, Orient nearly threw it away but striker Jay Simpson admitted his side should have seen out the game more convincingly. Speaking to leytonorient.com “maybe a bit of nerves set in, we were comfortable at 3-0 I thought, we got the goals and we were strong enough to see it out. We made it hard for ourselves, games like that 3-0 up, we shouldn’t be trying to hold on at the end. It’s something we’ve got to work on, hopefully get back on training ground”.

• Kept 14 league clean sheets (nine at home)
• Second best defensive Record in division – conceding just 27 goals
• No clean sheet in last five games
• Kept just two in last eight games
• Kept two in last three home games and eight in last 12 at Breyer Group Stadium

After struggling for consistency at the start of the year, Orient are slowly being to find form at the right time after three consecutive victories. Captain Jobi McAnuff highlighted spirit in the Orient squad to regain their form. Speaking to nationalleague.co.uk “we had a sticky period, I think we can honestly say it was. But the last two games, difficult trips inside a few days have shown the character is there”. He added “the manager has kept total faith in the team and backed us all the way”.

• Failed to score in eight league games (five at home)
• Scored in last three games – netting seven goals
• Scored in six of their last seven games in all competitions
• Scored in four of their last five league games
• Scored in six of their last eight home games

Defender Sam Ling grabbed his first Orient goal at Barrow in midweek and is confident his side can regain top spot with a win against Wrexham. The O’s have already beaten the Dragons twice this season both at the Racecourse Ground and Ling is determined to make it three on the bounce at home. Speaking to leytonorient.com “they are a very good team, very organised and they’ll be hard to break down. I believe the quality we have got in the squad and the depth we have is second to none. I’m confident we can go out and get the three points and kick on at the top of the league”.

• Home League Record – P17  W10  D4  L3  F29  A11
• Won two of their last three
• Last defeat – 16/02/2019 – Orient 0-1 Maidenhead
• Won six of their last eight at Breyer Group Stadium
• Taken nine points from last 15 available at home

Simpson returned to Orient in February after a spell in the US in search of a Championship medal. In a busy month, Orient have started with back to back wins and the former Arsenal youngster highlights winning against your rivals can be key. Speaking to leytonorient.com “it’s a six pointer, if we’re going to achieve promotion and win the league, these are the games you’ve got to win. I think all the boys should be looking forward to it especially come back to our ground and getting the fans behind us”.

• Scored 36/58 league goals in second half 
• Only Harrogate 42 have scored more in second period
• Eight of the 12 scored have been in second period
• Six of Orient’s last seven wins have been by just one goal

Team News

Defender Daniel Happe should be fit despite coming off in Tuesday’s win at Barrow. James Dayton and Josh Koroma should be back involved in the squad after returning from injury. Jordan Maguire-Drew is set to face his former side after playing 17 league games in the first half of the season. Myles Judd is sidelined through injury.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 14, Draw 11, Wrexham 11

• Orient have won the last three meetings and are unbeaten in last six – W4  D2
• Orient have scored in the last six meetings between sides
• Orient have kept three consecutive clean sheets against Wrexham
• Orient have only lost one of the last nine meetings – W4  D4  L1

The Last 10 Meetings Between Sides

Last Time Out – 05/03/2019 – Barrow 2-3 Leyton Orient

Starting 11 vs Barrow

Prediction – Leyton Orient 1-1 Wrexham