After defeat in the final match of 2024, at home to Anstey Nomads, The Knitters head to the Family Only Stadium looking to start the new year on the front against a playoff chasing Long Eaton United. Hinckley have won 4 of their last 6 including a win at the hosts Playoffs rivals Corby Town under 2 weeks ago.

Victory for The Knitters could take them as high as 12th depending on other results and would show a massive turnaround for the side who had to wait until mid October for their first league win.

Long Eaton have won 3 of their last 6 including 2 draws and sit 5th in the league looking for promotion straight back to Step 3. They ran out 3-1 victors over The Knitters back in August when goals from Liam Loughlan, James Taylor and a Dom Brennan own goal secured all 3 points and they boast the leagues 2nd top scorer in Evan Garnett.

It will be a tough trip to open 2025 for The Knitters but will take heart from good victories against good sides already this season.

Long Eaton United vs Hinckley LRFC
NPL Midlands
Wednesday 1st January 2025
3pm kick off
Family Only Stadium
Grange Park
NG10 2EF