Graham Fenton reveals why South Shields are relishing their top two clash with Lancaster City

The Mariners will remain top of the BetVictor Northern Premier Division unless Lancaster inflict at least a four-goal defeat on them at Giant Axe.

But Shields are targeting much more than that from the game as they bid to put more daylight between themselves and the chasing pack.

One of their four defeats so far this term was at home to Lancaster in November and the Mariners are looking to avenge that result.

A victory would put them six points clear at the top.

Joint manager Graham Fenton said: "Everyone involved in football looks forward to these top-of-the-table games.

"To hold these league positions at this stage of the season shows both teams have been doing very well.

"It's an added incentive for us that Lancaster came to Mariners and took all three points, so we'll be looking to get one back on them this time.

"We go into the game in really good spirits and are looking to maintain our winning league form in 2020."

Shields are expected to be backed by a strong travelling support as they bid to maintain their 100% start to 2020.

Their last outing saw them beat Mickleover Sports 5-2 in an entertaining match at Mariners Park last Saturday, with Tuesday's Integro Cup trip to Dunston having been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Fenton knows Lancaster will make life difficult for his side tomorrow, but insists Shields are relishing the test.

He added: "I'm sure it will be a tough game in testing conditions but as always our lads are really looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we can come out with a positive result.

"We have no fresh injury worries from last week so we will have a few selection issues in terms of the team and the squad, which is fantastic to have at this stage of the season.

"Lancaster have a particularly good home record and we know it's going to be tough.

"We're not going to be given anything so we'll have to earn everything we get, but hopefully we can come out on top."

Shields will remain without the injured Luke Daly (knee) and Ross Coombe (finger) ahead of tomorrow's 3pm kick-off at Giant Axe, which has a post code of LA1 5PE.