Huge crowd expected for playoff semi-final

Tickets are selling fast for the playoff semi-final between Salisbury and Gosport Borough, which takes place this evening (1st May) at the Ray Mac.

The club reported that around 70% of the tickets available for the match had already been sold yesterday evening, with supporters advised to buy online before they arrive at the game.

An electric atmosphere is expected as Gosport Borough’s allocation tickets is also selling very well.

BUY TICKETS HERE – https://salisburyfc.co.uk/tickets/

The playoff semi-final pits Salisbury, who finished third in the Southern League Premier South, against Gosport Borough, who finished fourth.

The teams have met three times already this season in league and cup, with all the games being tight affairs.

In their first meeting in the FA Trophy, the teams were only separated by penalties after a 2-2 draw. Gosport won 3-1 on penalties back in early October.

The clubs then met again a week later in their first league encounter. Salisbury won 2-0 in a tight game at the Ray Mac.

In the return fixture at Gosport in February, it was another tight game ending in a 1-1 draw, with both goals coming right at the end of the game, Bradley Tarbuck cancelling out Josh Hedges 90th minute goal in added time.

Both sides have been in and around the top four in the league almost all the way through the season – both stuttered slightly in the second half of the season, and both sides have proven they are a match for any side in the league on their day.

Brian Dutton expects it to be another tight affair, “We finished very close to each of this season in terms of the points and the games that we’ve played against them.

“I feel like we’ve edged the games in terms of performance, but the results, however you want to look at them, are one loss by penalties, a draw, and a win for Salisbury at home.

“So tight games, tight affairs, two good teams going at it. But crucially, we managed to get that win at home in front of our own fans. And I’m sure as long as we’re at it and we’re on our mettle, we will use that home advantage and it’ll be crucial.”

The club have announced that the game is to be fully segregated, in a statement they said, “With such interest in this game, we’re strongly recommending that you purchase your tickets in advance. If you can use our online ticket system, that would be much easier for both you and both Clubs so it would be hugely appreciated.

“This match will be fully segregated so there are separate ticket links for home and away supporters, so please use the correct link. Stewards from both clubs will be looking out for supporters with incorrect tickets.”

Speaking to the Gosport Borough Website, joint head coach Joe Lea was quick to acknowledge the difference their fans have made this season. “The unwavering support that the boys receive from the fans means everything to the lads, and is certainly a massive bonus for Pat and me…. [The] game is hopefully a bit of a reward for their amazing commitment to the campaign.

“They have travelled in good numbers to places like Tiverton, Welling, Sholing and Hendon and make such a difference; we can’t wait to see and hear them in full voice at Salisbury.”

BUY TICKETS HERE – https://salisburyfc.co.uk/tickets/

For more information, visit – https://salisburyfc.co.uk/playoff-semi-final-info/