Inspired substitution sees Trinity up and running
An inspired substitution saw Gainsborough Trinity open the 2026/27 season with a 2-0 victory at home to Workington on Saturday.
Second half goals from Ashton Offler and Fraser Preston secured the win with defender Offler coming on up front to break through.
Manager Russ Wilcox said: “I was delighted - it was a deserved result.
“We came out of the traps. We said we had to after Workington had a long three and a half hour journey.
“We couldn’t get the early goal, but we stuck in there and got the win.
“We made a couple of little tweaks with Ashton up top as a nine instead of a five.
“Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but it did on Saturday”
He continued “They were two really good goals, but the importance of the first win can’t be underestimated.
“You want to get that first win on the board as soon as possible, and to get it on opening day is really pleasing.
“We didn’t get it last year – we didn’t get it the season before, when we drew two each with Ilkeston.”
The former centre half was equally delighted with the clean sheet, saying:“It’s great to have Robbo (goalkeeper, David Robson) back in the building.
“His calmness behind our two centre backs, who dealt with their nine really well, was important. “The full backs were good in possession, with Jacko (Ash Jackson) putting in one of his best performances on the ball.
“We’re not going to get carried away though. This month’s crazy with eight games.
“We need to regroup and freshen up.
“Obviously it’s the same for all teams, but it does favour the sides with the bigger squads.
“But hopefully we can keep everyone fit through the period, and with the determination, togetherness and hard work we have shown we will give ourselves a chance in every game.”
Following Tuesday night’s clash at Alfreton, the Holy Blues are on the road again on Saturday, this time visiting last season’s Play-Off semi-finalists, FC United of Manchester.