MATCH PREVIEW: Wellens looks for response after Salford’s derby disappointment

Salford City host Bradford City in SkyBet League Two on Friday as they look to instantly respond to last week’s 2-0 defeat to local rivals Bolton, in what was Richie Wellens’ first league game in charge.

Salford had a big setback last Friday night in front of a Sky Sports audience as they played poorly and conceded two soft goals to struggling Bolton and continued their very inconsistent start to the 2019/20 campaign.

Extended highlights from last night's defeat to Bolton Wanderers. #WeAreSalford 🦁🔴

— Salford City FC (@SalfordCityFC) November 14, 2020

A win for the Ammies could see them move as high as seventh as they look to try to close the gap on the playoff positions and make a move up the table.

However, a third league defeat in a row would be a big setback and with how congested the table is, it could see them move down to 15th and level on points with their opponents Bradford who currently occupy 16th place.

A win for Bradford would help their currently slim playoff chances, as they look to build on their improved recent form and make their own move up the table.

Wellens can be encouraged due to the fact that before their last three games (which include two cup games) Bradford was on a 4 match losing streak, which included a defeat to Bolton.

What he will be wary of is Bradford’s 7-0 humbling of non-league opposition Tonbridge in the FA Cup last weekend and how much that win will have boosted their confidence.

It will be interesting to see if Wilson is put back into Wellens starting line-up after he dropped to the bench against Bolton despite his hot run of form and whether loanee Di’shon Bernard will keep his place at right-back.

Bernard has been brought in at right-back since Wellens came in as manager and particularly impressed in Salford’s FA Cup first-round triumph of Hartlepool United.

They are not in must-win territory yet but Salford does need to get a move on and start recording some wins if they really are going to challenge for promotion this season, which undoubtedly is their target.