Emley AFC head into a crucial week of Northern Premier League Division One East action with back-to-back fixtures. The Pewid are at home to Lincoln United on Tuesday 16 September before making the long trip north to face Blyth Town on Saturday 20 September.

It comes at a time of change and reflection for the club, with some recent squad departures, new leadership in the dressing room, and the need to respond after a disappointing FA Trophy exit.

The club confirmed earlier this week that Alex Metcalfe has left Emley after six years of service. Manager Richard Tracey said: “We thank Alex for his service and contribution to the club’s success, and we sincerely wish him well in his future. Alex played a big part in what we’ve achieved during his time here, and for that we thank him.”

Joe Kenny has also departed recently (18 Aug) in search of more regular football. Tracey explained: “Joe has been an outstanding midfielder and a huge contributor for us during his time at the club. He made it clear that he wanted to be playing regular football, and unfortunately, we couldn’t guarantee him that level of game time. Out of respect for everything he has given to the club, we felt it was only right to support him in finding that opportunity elsewhere.”

In a further squad update, Jack Cowgill has been named club captain with Chris Dawson taking on the vice-captaincy, two players Tracey regards highly for both their ability and influence.

He said: “Jack and Chris are two of the most experienced players in our squad. They set standards, they help the younger lads, and they’re natural leaders. Having players with that experience and attitude is vital as we continue to push forward this season.”

Emley’s league form has been strong, with the side unbeaten so far, but the cups have been less forgiving. A disappointing FA Cup exit was followed by a 2–0 defeat at Heaton Stannington in the FA Trophy, where, despite spells of pressure, Emley were undone by clinical finishing from the hosts.

Reflecting on the campaign so far, Tracey commented: “If I look back at the first part of the season, there are positives and areas to improve. In the league, we’re unbeaten, and if we win our games in hand, we’d effectively be top of the table. Defensively, we’ve looked solid again, and that’s a credit to the players’ organisation and work rate.

“Where we do need to get better is at the top end of the pitch. We’ve been working hard in training on sustaining pressure, creating chances, and crucially taking those chances when they come. That’s the area where we can kick on and turn draws into wins.”

Injuries and player movements mean Emley are also looking at ways to strengthen the squad. Dawson is expected to return from a hamstring problem.

Tracey says recruitment will be measured and sensible: “Behind the scenes, there’s a lot of work going on to strengthen the squad. We’re looking at the possibility of another centre back if Connor O'Grady loan ends, and we’re exploring ways to add more goals.

“Yes, I could go out and sign a striker this week, but would it be the right fit? We want additions to be assets, not short-term fixes. The player has to fit financially within our budget, fit into our system and style of play, and fit into the dressing room. Sometimes that means waiting for the right player rather than rushing into the wrong one.”

Attention now turns to the league and two fixtures that could shape Emley’s momentum.

Lincoln United are Tuesday’s visitors to the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground. Sitting 15th in the table, they are a side capable of springing surprises something Tracey is fully aware of.

“Lincoln is a dangerous side. They’ve already beaten Matlock Town this season, and Matlock are favourites for the league. That tells you they can beat anybody on their day. But we’re at home, and that gives us the platform to impose ourselves, stamp our authority on the game, and make sure we come away with three points.”

Four days later, Emley travels to bottom placed Blyth Town (Sat 20 Sept). On paper, it looks favourable, but Tracey is wary of underestimating them: “They might be bottom of the league at the moment, but those games can be the most dangerous. Sooner or later, someone will be their first victory, and we’ve got to make sure it isn’t us. We’ve been very good away from home so far only conceding once and now we need to build on that by being more of a threat in the final third and making sure we come back with three points from a long trip up north.”

Emley remain unbeaten in the league and close behind the leaders. With new leadership in the squad and experienced heads setting the standard, the team has a clear focus on improving in the final third. This week’s fixtures present a real opportunity to turn promise into points.

Two positive results would strengthen the Pewits’ league position and send a clear message that they are ready to mount a serious challenge at the top end of NPL Division One - East.