Fixture pile-up for title contenders Wealdstone (From Harrow Times)

Wealdstone face Ryman Premier Division fixture pile-up

5:10pm Thursday 21st March 2013 in Sport

Wealdstone face a brutal run of five games in ten days which could prove pivotal in their hopes of challenging for the Ryman Premier Division title.

The Stones were due to host promotion rivals Concord Rangers on Saturday but it was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. It has been rearranged for Thursday, March 28 leaving a fixture headache for manager Gordon Bartlett.

Wealdstone travel to Hampton & Richmond Borough on Saturday before a trip to play-off contenders Margate on Tuesday.

Bartlett’s side then face Concord two days later before the short trip to Wingate & Finchley the following Saturday. Their hectic schedule continues on Easter Monday when they host Harrow Borough in their derby clash.

Wealdstone are currently ten points off leaders Whitehawk but have three games in hand. With the game against Rangers, who are level on points with them, to come their next fortnight could go a long way to determine their promotion hopes.

The club have offered free entry to Under-16s for all remaining home games this season in a bid to attract bumper crowds.

Stones chairman Howard Krais said: “We are delighted to offer free admission to all Under-16s for our remaining home matches this season.

“We’ve worked hard to successfully attract more young people this season and with every home game likely to be critical, we want to encourage as many home supporters as we can to be there and get behind the team.

“Hopefully this offer will see not only Under-16s who have started watching us but also new people who want to give us a try.”

Meanwhile, in the Thames Valley Counties Women’s League, Wealdstone Under-18 Girls were beaten 3-1 at home to Reading.

Claire Holden scored the consolation for the Stones but it was not enough to deny the Royals.

Wealdstone Ladies play their County Cup semi-final at home on Sunday.