Hallam vs Runcorn Linnets - FA Trophy

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Hallam and Runcorn Linnets together at the home ground on September 13, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the FA Trophy occasion. K-League All-Stars v Manchester City: Confirmed line-ups as Maresca’s men face Korean test.

A glance at the FA Trophy table tells the story: Hallam in 71st and Runcorn Linnets in 44th, with positions to defend and places to climb. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. Runcorn Linnets will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Dusan Vlahovic followed up his hat-trick on Monday by completing the comeback to leave Fenerbahce four points behind Galatasaray, who snatched a late winner at Basaksehir on Friday.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Hallam may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Runcorn Linnets have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Brentford's priority this summer has been to sign a new central midfielder - and they completed a club-record deal for Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare on August 1.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Given the balance of the numbers, Runcorn Linnets look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. With positions in the FA Trophy table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.