As the international break approaches, many local football enthusiasts might find themselves at a loss with professional leagues taking a backseat to the international stage. However, fear not! This weekend offers a unique chance for football fans to delve into the vibrant non-league scene thriving in Sheffield and its environs. Leading up to Non-League Day on March 23rd, we're here to preview the exciting local fixtures and encourage you to witness the action first-hand at one of our esteemed local clubs.
Each day, we'll delve into a different fixture, equipping you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision on how to spend your upcoming Saturday!
Today, our focus turns to a compelling clash featuring two local sides in the NCEL Premier Division as Maltby Main square off against Penistone Church in a 3 pm showdown at Muglet Lane.
Last season's County Cup Runners-Up, Maltby Main, find themselves six points adrift from safety following a challenging campaign by their standards. On the other hand, Penistone Church remains in contention for a playoff berth with seven games left, trailing fifth-placed Albion Sport by a mere seven points.
Maltby will be eager to bounce back after a humbling 8-0 defeat at the hands of Garforth Town, witnessed by an impressive crowd of over 400. While Maltby displayed competitiveness, trailing only 1-0 at halftime, a disastrous second half further marred their already struggling goal difference.
Despite facing adversity this year, Maltby Main stands as a remarkable local club, boasting a Premier Division tenure spanning 19 years since their promotion from Division 1 in the 2003/2004 season. They've clinched top-eight finishes in the division in five of the last eight seasons and have often punched above their weight, notably eliminating both Stocksbridge Park Steels and Sheffield FC enroute to the Sheffield County Cup final.
This season, Maltby has witnessed an average attendance of 122 spectators—a 19% surge compared to the previous season—underscoring their enduring appeal despite challenging circumstances. With professional clubs like Rotherham United on hiatus and Penistone Church likely to bring a sizable away following, Maltby anticipates its highest turnout of the season as they strive to claw their way out of the relegation quagmire in the Premier Division. Maltby Main FAQs
How do we get there?
General Ground Directions: Exit M18 at Junc 1 with A631. Two miles into Maltby, right at traffic lights at Queens Hotel corner on to B6427 Muglet Lane. Ground ¾mile on left. Public Transport: Station: Rotherham Central 8¾ miles. First South Yorkshire X1 from Rotherham (Corporation Street, 5 minutes walk from station) to Maltby (Outgang Lane, Muglet Lane) three times per hour, journey time 49 minutes. Return bus runs from same stop. Bus stop is opposite ground. Public transport directions courtesy of Andy Edwards. Click here for more details.
Parking? Some parking in the club car park but plenty of street parking surrounding the ground.
Clubhouse? No, however there is a nearby Wetherspoons that offers a great pre/post match pint!
Club Shop? There is a small club shop just situated next to the classic turnstile entrance. On offer are a range of non-league goodies and last time we visited there was club apparel available at bargain prices.
Food? Yes, efficient and quick service offering everything you’d expect at a football game!
Price? Adults £6 Concessions £4 Under 16-s £1
Seating and Coverage?
Capacity 2000 Cover 300 Seating 150