Match Preview | Accrington Stanley (A)

After securing three consecutive wins at home, Gavin Cowan looks to secure his first three points away today when we travel to Accrington Stanley.

Here’s everything you need to know about today’s hosts.

Key Players:

Accrington Stanley have one of the most experienced squads in League Two. Paddy Madden, 35, is likely to lead the line, with the on-loan Chesterfield striker scoring twice in his last four appearances.

Two former Town players are also likely to line up against us on Saturday. Fan-favourite and all-round Salop legend Shaun Whalley will receive a warm ovation from the travelling fans. The 37-year-old has scored four and assisted six in 18 appearances this season and has been a consistent starter for Stanley.

Former Shrewsbury team-mate Donald Love is likely to start in defence. The right-back has made 26 appearances for the club this season and has made the position his own.

Accrington will be without Luke Butterfield and Josh Woods for the match, with the pair both being sent off in the team’s 1-0 win at Tranmere on Tuesday.

The Manager:

John Doolan is the man in the dugout for Accrington. The former non-league player joined the club as a coach in 2017 before being appointed manager in March 2024. He is now in his second full season at the club, having guided them to safety last season, finishing in 21st, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Form:

Accrington are currently on their best run of the season, having won three of their last four games. They currently sit 13th in the table on 46 points, six points off the top seven.

Head-to-Head Record:

We first met Accrington Stanley in August 2003 during our brief stay in the National League. A Colin Cramb goal secured a 1-0 victory. We followed this up with a 0-0 draw at Gay Meadow later in the season.

We then met again in the Football League, playing out a 3-3 draw at the Wham Stadium in 2006. Since then, we have played each other a further 25 times. We have had the better of Accy over the years - winning 11, drawing seven, and losing eight.