Durham derby is just another game - we want momentum, says Smith
Durham Corinthians midfielder Matthew Smith insists his side are treating their season-opener against local rivals Durham City as ‘just another game’.
The Citizens have endured an abysmal start to their first season in the Wearside League after emerging pointless and goalless from their opening four games of the campaign.
To make matters worse,
Wednesday’s 12-0 hammering at Richmond Town was the second time City have conceded double figures this season, and meant they have leaked 33 goals in their quartet of fixtures.
Smith is adamant his side will not focus on their opponents’ plight as they look to progress in the Alan Hood Charity Cup Preliminary Round tie at New Ferens Park.
He told The Echo: “We are really excited to get the season under way and start trying to build on last season.
“As a club, we want to continue to progress and getting off to a good start would be a bonus.
“I am sure some people will make a big deal out of the game but it’s just another game for us. Momentum is our only focus.”
Silksworth CW visit
Richmond Town in the first round of the same competition as they look to build on their first win of the campaign.
Jamie Cole’s men claimed a 3-1 home win against Annfield Plain in midweek but will be without Jak Wright and Kieran Mitchell for their trip to North Yorkshire.
Farringdon Detached host Darlington RA and they will hope for more of the same after their highly-impressive 2-0 win at Gateshead Leam Rangers on Wednesday.
Elsewhere in the competition, Norton and Stockton Ancients are without the suspended George Franklin for their home tie against inform Shotton Colliery, and Windscale look to continue their unbeaten start to the season when they visit South Moor.
There are three league fixtures taking place this weekend as new signing Brad Staunch will hope to start in FC Hartlepool’s home game against winless Annfield Plain. Shildon Reserves visit Eastbourne Sports Complex to take on Darlington Town, and Gateshead Leam Rangers look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season when they host Wolviston.