Gainsborough Trinity Football Club was formed in 1873 as Trinity Recreationists, set up by the vicar of the Holy Trinity Church for young parishioners. In 1889 they became members of the Midland Counties League. They won the Midland League championship in 1890/91 and after finishing runners-up the following season were elected to the Football League Second Division. Their first match was against Newton Heath who later became Manchester United. Gainsborough struggled and returned to the Midland League in 1912. In 1969 they became founder members of the Northern Premier League. Gainsborough have never won the NPL but were the longest-serving member of the NPL, ending a 36-year stay after finishing tenth in the Premier Division to earn a place in the Conference North for 2004/05. Current Stafford resident and ex Aston Villa star Brian Little had a short spell as manager of Gainsborough. Relegation from the National League North has enabled us to meet again for League fixtures after many years. Our FA Trophy defeat at Northolme last season was our most recent meeting, following regular encounters in the 70’s.

At the start of this season Gainsborough made it clear that they wanted a swift return to the National League North, like Altrincham did last season, with the signing of prolific strikers Damian Reeves and Ross Hannah. We all remember Reeves at Shaw Lane last season, but to help us Ross Hannah is suspended for this game. Their home has been impressive with 15 points from a possible 18, with only Scarborough going home with points, and an emphatic 8-2 thrashing of Chasetown in the FA Cup. It is on their travels where they have not been as good, and we hope that form continues this Saturday. They have won away at Hyde and Hednesford, drawn at Witton and Farsley, and lost at South Shields, Stalybridge and Nantwich. While we were progressing in the Integro league cup tie at Chasetown, Gainsborough were losing in an FA Trophy replay further down the road at Tamworth.

This game is an important fixture as we attempt to build on a mini cup win run, and much needed confidence to get back on track with some much needed league points, so your support is much welcomed to support the team.

Games played this century on 3rd November.
2001 Guisley A 0-0 FA Trophy round 1 (won replay 4-2)
2007 Exeter H 1-5 Vauxhall Conference
2012 Blyth Spartans A 0-1 Northern Premier League
2015 Lincoln United A 1-1 FA Trophy 1st qualifying round – lost 5-4 on penalties