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28 February 2025

National League Weekend Preview: Key Matches Await

Barnet and York City face challenging away fixtures as playoff hopes hang in the balance.

This Saturday, March 2, 2025, the English National League showcases thrilling fixtures as teams across the league battle for valuable points. With eight exciting matches scheduled, fans are gearing up for what promises to be another action-packed day.

At the forefront, Barnet and York City, both contenders for the top spot, face tough away matches. Barnet, leading the pack, will visit Oldham Athletic, where the challenge lies not only in securing three points but also maintaining their six-point cushion over second-placed York.

Dean Brennan's not-so-bee-like Bees come off the back of four wins out of five games and will aim to keep up their momentum against Oldham, who currently sit just outside the playoff positions. Oldham, managing the pressure of recent poor performances, desperately needs to turn things around to secure their spot among the playoff contenders.

Meanwhile, York City will travel to Hartlepool United, hoping to capitalize on their midweek victory over Maidenhead. After clawing back some much-needed ground on Barnet, York is poised to apply pressure on the leaders once again. Hartlepool, under the guidance of Anthony Limbrick, has yet to find form, remaining winless for four games and struggling to adapt with their new managerial changes.

The late match on Saturday features Gateshead going up against AFC Fylde. This match holds significant ramifications for both ends of the table. Gateshead, consistently hovering around the playoff spots, desires to double down on their position. On the other hand, Fylde, with their backs against the wall, will seek to steer clear of relegation danger after showing signs of improvement.

This weekend, the match line-up also includes various other fixtures such as Braintree Town taking on Eastleigh, and Dagenham & Redbridge challenging Boston United. The rest of the 3 pm matches feature Ebbsfleet United facing Tamworth and Forest Green Rovers squaring off against Maidenhead United. With so many teams at different levels of competition, the stakes remain high.

National League games this Saturday, March 2:


  • Braintree Town vs Eastleigh - 3 pm GMT

  • Dagenham & Redbridge vs Boston United - 3 pm GMT

  • Ebbsfleet United vs Tamworth - 3 pm GMT

  • Forest Green Rovers vs Maidenhead United - 3 pm GMT

  • Hartlepool United vs York City - 3 pm GMT

  • Oldham Athletic vs Barnet - 3 pm GMT

  • Yeovil Town vs Southend United - 3 pm GMT

  • Gateshead vs AFC Fylde - 5:30 pm GMT

Fans around the world can watch the National League action through DAZN, offering direct coverage of the matches along with highlights and analysis. With numerous fixtures, dedicated football enthusiasts will surely have their fill.

The National League is experiencing intense competition, with teams riskily jockeying for playoff spots and others fighting to avoid relegation. With only five points separating the top five teams, Chester’s one-point lead against Scunthorpe United showcases just how competitive it has become.

Chester, who had been atop the table throughout February, faces Needham Market this week. Their position has grown precarious, as they must keep point-hungry rivals at bay if they hope to maintain their lead. Brackley Town, with five wins out of their last six, is undoubtedly making its presence known, firmly remaining within reach of the leaders.

The teams are not the only ones feeling the pressure; players are battling for personal accolades and contract renewals, making every kick count throughout this tightly contested league.

With aspirations high and the tension palpable, Saturday's matches are set to draw focus and support from fans, players, and management alike. The National League provides hope, heartache, and thrilling encounters, stimulating the competitive spirit and excitement of football at its grassroots.

Who will capitalize on this round of fixtures? Only time will tell as fans prepare for the weekend’s showdown, but one thing is for sure - the drama of the National League is only just beginning!