Farsley Celtic will be looking to get points on the board on Saturday when they visit Oxford City for the first ever time 

The Celts have been through a rough spell in terms of form in recent encounters against strong sides in the form of Chorley and Kidderminster Harriers. Performances have been there and the Celts were unlucky not to take a points from either match.

One win in five has seen Pav Singh’s side slip to 19th in the National League North after narrowly missing out on points numerous times; they possess a two point advantage over today’s hosts Oxford.

The encounter at The Mgroup Stadium offers Farsley the perfect opportunity to bounce back from their recent struggles and to put some daylight between them and the relegation zone.

The Celts face a tough challenge away at Oxford despite their own recent struggles with form.

Relegated from the National League in the 2023/24 season, Ross Jenkins’ side have struggled to get going so far in the National League North, but will see today as a fantastic chance to get themselves out of the drop zone with a good result.

Reflecting on the midweek defeat at Chorley for Farsley, Manager Pav Singh said: “We showed a positive response against Chorley, and while it was disappointing not to come away with a point, there were plenty of encouraging signs.

“Our approach to the game was spot on, we were solid, compact, and aggressive, sticking to the principles we’ve worked hard to install.

”Now, the challenge is to turn that effort into results by creating and executing more chances in front of goal.”

Commenting on some of the individual performances against Chorley, Pav said: “There were some standout performances last time out. Isaac showed real promise and has settled in quickly, while Joao’s return for the full 90 minutes was a huge boost, his sharpness and unique qualities give us something different in the side.

“We’re also excited to see what Connor Ferguson can bring. An attacking left-sided player, he’s versatile enough to operate as both a left-back and a wing-back. His energy and forward-thinking style will add another dimension to our play, giving us more options going forward.”

On today’s opponents, Pav said: “Oxford City will be another tough opponent, but we’re confident we can build on our recent performances and start putting points on the board. It’s all about maintaining our intensity, taking our chances, and staying resilient from start to finish.

“A big thank you to our travelling fans for making the long journey, we appreciate your support more than ever. Let’s give you something to celebrate on the way back.”

TEAM NEWS

Farsley are boosted the arrival of Connor Ferguson on loan from Leeds United. The Celts will be without DJ Campton-Sturridge however as he recovers from injury.

OXFORD CITY

Despite struggling in their last three matches, Oxford were on a recent run of form before the loss to Alfreton Town.

Ross Jenkins side put together a four-match unbeaten streak in the league with victories over Hereford and Radcliffe.

A win today sees them leapfrog Farsley and puts them above the drop zone.

LAST TIME OUT

It’s a first ever meeting between the two sides, with Oxford playing in the National League South before their promotion in 2022/23 and subsequent relegation the season after.

SOCIAL MEDIA

If you can’t make the game today, you can keep up with the events by keeping up with our social channels.

Our live commentary will also be on air from 14:45 with Matt Blackburn.