FC Halifax Town v Ebbsfleet: Preview

Town have only won once in their last nine matches, and have only won once in their last nine home league fixtures.

Scott McManus was expected to train last night (Thursday) having sat out Tuesday’s session, while fellow left-back Josh Wilde will go for a scan today (Friday) on his knee injury.

Centre-back Martin Riley is now back in full training and could be in contention to play within seven to 10 days.

Ebbsfleet have only scored once in their last five games, and have only won once in their last six.

Luke Coulson’s winner against Solihull Moors last time out was Ebbsfleet’s first goal for more than seven hours, and manager Daryl McMahon is hoping to bring in two more forwards ahead of Saturday’s game.

They have only won three away league games this season - the third worst tally in the division - and have only won one of their last 11 away games in all competitions. They also have just one clean sheet in their last eight away league games.

A win for Halifax could move them eight points clear of the drop zone if results go their way, but if they lose, the gap could be closed to two.

Town lost 2-0 at Ebbsfleet earlier this season, but did beat them last time they visited The Shay back in April 2008, with Simon Heslop scoring the winner.

Saturday’s National League fixtures:

Aldershot v Macclesfield

Chester v Eastleigh

Torquay v Dag & Red

Boreham W v Gateshead

Sutton Utd v Wrexham

Halifax v Ebbsfleet

Solihull M v Dover

Maidstone v Barrow

Hartlepool v Woking

Tranmere v Bromley

Guiseley v Maidenhead

AFC Fylde v Leyton Orient