Shots In November: Review

The month that saw another managerial change, as Jason Dodd departed and Kevin Dillon arrived, the FA Cup campaign begin and a trip to Notts County – November promised to be an exciting month for the Shots.

The month began with Jason Dodd’s last match in charge before taking on a role at Southampton. Fellow League Two side Bury were the visitors just three weeks after their 3-2 win in the league. This game was a different story however as first half goals from Louis Soares and Scott Donnelly made sure Aldershot progressed to the second round, where they were drawn away at League One Tranmere Rovers.

After the Bury match Kevin Dillon was announced as the new manager of Aldershot Town. His first game in charge was a home game against Macclesfield. The Silkmen travelled south with a game plan and stopped Dillon’s side from playing, eventually holding out for a 0-0 draw.

The first away game of the month was at Meadow Lane as Aldershot faced play off rivals Notts County. The roles were almost reversed from the week before, as this time it was Aldershot who had to do the defending and keep the home team out – Which they did to perfection. Marvin Morgan could have wont he game in the second half, but it finished 0-0.

Northampton Town were the next opponents at the Rec, who had made an uninspiring start to life in League Two following relegation last season. However, the Cobblers were impressive and took a deserved lead after 17 minutes through Luke Gutteridge. Aldershot looked to be heading for a rare home defeat before being awarded a generous (to say the least) penalty with 10 minutes to go. Donnelly stepped up and his shot was saved, only for it to be re-taken and this time Donnelly made no mistake. In the final minute, Marvin Morgan used his pace and power, cut inside and beat his man before firing low into the net to snatch all 3 points for the home side and give Kevin Dillon is first win as Shots manager.

The month ended with a trip north, as Aldershot faced Tranmere in the FA Cup 2nd round. A good defensive performance earned the Shots a 0-0 draw against the League One side and went into a replay knowing that a win would set up a home tie with Premier League side Wolves.