Macclesfield vs Anstey Nomads: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Thursday, 15 October 2026 by Steve
Macclesfield vs Anstey Nomads
England FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Martyn Waghorn links up with former team-mate David Nugent at Anstey Nomads - The Non-League Football Paper
Macclesfield return to FA Cup action on Saturday afternoon with a Fourth Qualifying Round home tie against Anstey Nomads. It is a meeting between two in-form non-League sides, but they arrive from different levels of the English pyramid. Macclesfield are competing in National League North and moved to the top of the division after their remarkable 4-3 comeback victory over South Shields last weekend. Anstey, newly promoted into the Southern League Premier Division Central after winning the Northern Premier League Midlands title last season, have already produced an eye-catching cup run and arrive with considerable belief.
John Rooneyâs side needed two matches to get past Scarborough Athletic in the previous round. Macclesfield drew 2-2 at home before winning the away replay 2-1 on 6 October, meaning this will be their third cup match in less than a fortnight. Even so, confidence should be high. The Silkmen have won four and drawn two of their last six fixtures in all competitions, scoring 13 times during that sequence. Their latest performance was particularly impressive: two goals down to South Shields inside 12 minutes, they recovered to win 4-3 through goals from Josh Kay, Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, Jon Ustabasi and captain Danny Elliott.
Ansteyâs route has been longer and even more adventurous. Conrad Loganâs team have already eliminated Newcastle Town, Sutton Coldfield, Gainsborough Trinity and Rushall Olympic, demonstrating that they can win in different ways. They scored four times at Sutton Coldfield, edged Gainsborough 3-2 in an entertaining tie and then defeated Rushall 2-1 in the Third Qualifying Round. A 3-2 league victory over Rushall on Tuesday added to the feel-good factor around the club, although the short recovery period could become a factor at the Leasing.com Stadium.
The match also carries a strong narrative because of Ansteyâs veteran attacking options. Former Premier League forward David Nugent is registered as a player-coach, while former Rangers, Ipswich Town and Derby County striker Martyn Waghorn returned for the 2026/27 campaign after enjoying his first spell with the club. Their experience brings obvious quality, but Macclesfield possess the deeper squad, the higher-level pedigree and the advantage of playing at home in front of another strong Moss Rose crowd. For readers comparing two teams without a reliable head-to-head sample, our guide to how to analyze soccer matches for betting explains why current form, squad depth and tactical level often matter more than reputation.
As of publication, the available European odds make Macclesfield clear favourites at approximately 1.55, with the draw around 4.80 and an Anstey victory priced near 5.41. Those numbers are understandable, but they do not fully remove the possibility of goals at both ends. Macclesfieldâs recent matches have been open, while Anstey have repeatedly shown that they can create chances against higher-level opposition. Our final prediction is a 3-1 home victory, with Macclesfieldâs attacking depth expected to make the difference in the closing stages.
Tactical Preview
Conrad Logan - NamuWiki
Formation & Key Matchups
Macclesfield 3-4-3
Rooney is expected to retain the aggressive structure that has helped Macclesfield control large portions of recent games. The three centre-backs allow both wing-backs to advance, while Josh Kay and Danny Elliott are given freedom to operate between the lines. Luke Duffyâs delivery from the right has become an important attacking weapon, and Jon Ustabasi can stretch a defensive line by attacking the left channel. The formation gives Macclesfield natural width, but it also leaves space behind the advanced wing-backs when possession is lost.
Anstey Nomads 3-5-2
Anstey are likely to use a compact 3-5-2 that can become a 5-3-2 without the ball. That shape suits the players available to Logan. Tobias Liversidge can connect midfield with the forwards, Rubyn Gill adds energy and Tendai Chitiza offers mobility in behind. Waghornâs intelligent movement could be particularly effective against a back three because he tends to drift into the half-spaces rather than remaining in a predictable central position. Nugent may begin on the bench, but his physical presence and experience remain valuable if Anstey need a route back into the match.
Critical Vulnerability
Macclesfieldâs main vulnerability is the space left when both wing-backs advance. South Shields repeatedly found room behind the wide defenders and scored three times from promising attacking positions last weekend. Anstey do not have South Shieldsâ overall depth, but Waghorn, Chitiza and the advancing midfielders are capable of exploiting turnovers. Conversely, Ansteyâs central defenders will be tested by quick combinations around Elliott. If Macclesfield move the ball cleanly from midfield into the final third, the visitorsâ back three could be dragged out of shape. The likely decisive area is therefore the half-space between Ansteyâs wing-back and outside centre-back. Our broader tactical approach is consistent with the principles discussed in this sports betting strategies resource: identify the area where one teamâs strength directly attacks the otherâs weakness before settling on a wager.
Team News & Squad Status
Macclesfield đľâŞ
- Captain Paul Dawson is the principal fitness concern after missing the 4-3 victory over South Shields through injury.
- Christian Dibble is expected to continue in goal following his important saves during last weekendâs comeback.
- Danny Elliott remains the central attacking figure and scored Macclesfieldâs decisive goal against South Shields.
- Josh Kay has made a strong start after returning on a permanent deal in August, scoring in the latest league victory.
- The 2026/27 squad also includes Paul Cooper, Luke Matheson, Lincoln McFayden, Elliot Osborne, Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, George Wilson, Adan George, Luke Duffy, Sam Heathcote, Fin Shrimpton, Luis Lacey, Tom Wilson, Carlos Dos Santos, Jon Ustabasi, Matthew Apter, Veron Parny, Hassan Ayub, Ammar Dyer, Edward Ikpakwu, Brandon Lee and Theo Chapman.
- There has been no fresh official indication that any major first-team regular is suspended for the tie.
Anstey Nomads đĄâŤ
- Anstey reported no major new absences immediately after Tuesdayâs victory over Rushall Olympic.
- Conrad Logan remains listed as the clubâs senior goalkeeper and registered player, while also managing the side.
- Martyn Waghorn returned for the 2026/27 campaign after helping Anstey win promotion last season.
- David Nugent continues in a player-coach capacity and supplies elite-level experience despite being 41.
- The current senior pool includes Jordan Annable, Lewis Gibbens, Darien Wauchope, Luke Redfern, Oscar Tonge, Kyle Tomlin, Ben Humphreys, Rubyn Gill, Henry Bestwick, Jonty Bouch, Tobias Liversidge, Ronnie Kokkinos, Tendai Chitiza, Kevin Bastos, Harvey Kirby-Moore, Tristen Thomas, Courey Grantham and Luis Rose.
- The short turnaround from Tuesdayâs match may lead Logan to manage the minutes of his most experienced forwards.
Predicted Lineups
Stratford Town lose to Anstey Nomads in the FA Trophy
| Macclesfield 3-4-3 | Anstey Nomads 3-5-2 |
|---|---|
| Christian Dibble | Conrad Logan |
| Luke Matheson | Jordan Annable |
| Sam Heathcote | Lewis Gibbens |
| Tom Wilson | Darien Wauchope |
| Cameron Borthwick-Jackson | Ben Humphreys |
| Luke Duffy | Rubyn Gill |
| Matthew Apter | Henry Bestwick |
| Josh Kay | Tobias Liversidge |
| Jon Ustabasi | Ronnie Kokkinos |
| Danny Elliott | Tendai Chitiza |
| Theo Chapman | Martyn Waghorn |
Head-to-Head Record
There is no established first-team competitive head-to-head record between Macclesfield and Anstey Nomads. That creates an unusual betting puzzle because neither side has a direct historical pattern against the other. Instead, the most useful indicators are current level, cup results, tactical compatibility and squad depth. Macclesfield have far greater experience of facing opponents from Step 1 and Step 2, while Anstey are attempting to prove that their promotion-winning momentum can translate against a side operating one division higher.
The lack of a head-to-head record does not make the fixture impossible to assess. Macclesfieldâs results against National League North opposition have been more consistent, and their comeback against South Shields demonstrated considerable resilience. Ansteyâs cup record is more surprising but arguably more encouraging from a neutral perspective. They have already won multiple knockout matches and have repeatedly recovered after conceding. That makes a conservative draw-based approach worth considering, as explained in this double chance betting guide, although our primary view remains that Macclesfield have the stronger overall profile.
Key Players Comparison
Elliott is Macclesfieldâs most reliable attacking reference point. He can lead the line, drift into the channels and finish with either foot, while his leadership was evident in the comeback against South Shields. Chitiza offers Anstey a more mobile option and can attack space behind the home sideâs wing-backs. Elliott should see more service, but Chitizaâs movement could create one or two important transition opportunities.
Kayâs permanent return has added creativity and a goal threat between midfield and attack. His timing into the penalty area was rewarded with a goal against South Shields. Liversidge, meanwhile, is important to Anstey because he can link defence and attack while maintaining the teamâs compact shape. The midfield battle will influence whether Macclesfield can sustain pressure or Anstey can slow the match down.
Duffy can influence the game through set pieces, crosses and direct running from the right. Waghornâs role is different: his movement, hold-up play and finishing intelligence could make him dangerous even with limited touches. Waghorn is no longer at his peak physical level, but his decision-making and positioning remain valuable. Duffy may create more chances; Waghorn may need fewer chances to score.
Dibble produced a crucial reaction save late in Macclesfieldâs 4-3 win and gives the hosts a dependable presence behind the back three. Loganâs involvement is one of the tieâs more unusual storylines. As Ansteyâs manager and registered goalkeeper, he combines coaching awareness with veteran shot-stopping experience. Macclesfield are likely to direct more efforts on target, so Anstey may need an especially strong goalkeeping display to force a replay.
The strongest individual matchup is between Macclesfieldâs attack-minded wing-backs and Ansteyâs experienced forward line. If the visitors can isolate their strikers against the outside centre-backs, they will create chances. However, Macclesfieldâs superior numbers in advanced areas should produce sustained pressure. Readers weighing the two teams in the 1X2 market can review the fundamentals in this moneyline betting guide before deciding whether the favouriteâs price offers sufficient value.
The Managers
John Rooney
Rooney has continued to build an aggressive, front-foot Macclesfield side capable of dominating possession and recovering from difficult moments. The 4-3 victory over South Shields was a good example of his teamâs character: even after falling two goals behind twice, Macclesfield maintained their attacking structure and eventually overwhelmed the opposition.
His selection decision may revolve around midfield balance. If Dawson is unavailable again, Rooney must choose between the control of Elliot Osborne, the forward runs of Josh Kay and the energy of Matthew Apter. The home sideâs bench also contains enough attacking options to change the game in the second half.
Conrad Logan
Logan has transformed Anstey into a confident, tactically organised side and has not been afraid to use his network of former professional teammates. The presence of David Nugent as a player-coach and the return of Martyn Waghorn have enhanced the clubâs footballing knowledge without changing its underdog identity.
His challenge on Saturday is to protect a defence that will face longer spells under pressure while still giving his forwards enough support. Loganâs own playing experience may help Anstey remain composed, but managing recovery time after Tuesdayâs match could be just as important as the tactical plan.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.55
Macclesfield are the most reliable selection because they combine home advantage, greater squad depth, a higher division and stronger recent form. The available European odds imply a 64.5% probability, which is demanding but not unreasonable. The hosts have won four of their last six matches and remain unbeaten during that run. More importantly, they have shown the ability to win when the match becomes stretched. Anstey are dangerous enough to score, but sustaining that threat over 90 minutes against Step 2 opposition is a bigger task. Additional context and selection methods can be found in our best free betting tips section.
Odds: 1.72
Over 2.5 goals is attractive because both teams have been involved in high-scoring fixtures. Macclesfieldâs last six matches have averaged 3.33 total goals, while Ansteyâs have averaged 4.17. Every Anstey match in this seasonâs FA Cup has exceeded 2.5 goals, and Macclesfieldâs comeback against South Shields also featured seven goals. The tactical setup supports another open contest: Macclesfield will push both wing-backs forward, while Anstey have enough movement and experience to counterattack. This market is explained in detail in our over/under betting guide.
Odds: 1.65
Both teams to score has landed in five of Macclesfieldâs last six matches and in every Anstey match across the same sample. Anstey have scored at least twice in each of their three FA Cup ties this season, while Macclesfield have scored twice or more in four of their last six games. The hostsâ aggressive wing-back system can create space for Waghorn and Chitiza to counterattack, while Ansteyâs back three will be heavily tested by Elliott, Kay, Ustabasi and Duffy. Our dedicated both teams to score betting page outlines why this market can often be preferable to simply backing a winner.
Odds: 1.90
For bettors seeking a larger return from a Macclesfield victory, the -1 Asian handicap is the logical alternative to the short home price. It protects against a narrow one-goal home win by returning the stake in that scenario, while still rewarding a convincing victory. Our 3-1 prediction covers the handicap by two goals, and Macclesfieldâs bench gives Rooney more scope to maintain the pressure after substitutions. The mechanics of the market are covered in our Asian handicap betting guide.
Odds: 9.00
The 3-1 correct score combines our expectation of a home victory with the statistical case for goals at both ends. Macclesfield have the firepower to create multiple chances, but their defensive structure has not been sufficiently secure to make a clean sheet highly likely. Ansteyâs forwards are experienced enough to convert one transition or set-piece opportunity. Correct score wagers are high-risk, so they should be kept small and viewed separately from the main selections. See our correct score betting guide for more information on how these markets behave.
đ Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
We predict a 3-1 Macclesfield victory. The hosts should control longer periods of possession and create the greater number of high-quality chances because of their width, midfield runners and the attacking range of Elliott. Anstey are capable of scoring, particularly if they can isolate Macclesfieldâs outside centre-backs during transitions, but the visitors may find it difficult to withstand repeated pressure once the home side increases the tempo.
The most likely route to the predicted score is an open first half followed by greater Macclesfield control after the interval. A 2-1 scoreline late in the second half would create the conditions for an additional home goal, either from sustained pressure or through the counterattack as Anstey commit bodies forward. A home win by two goals would also validate the more ambitious handicap angle without requiring the visitors to be completely outplayed.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Macclesfield are unbeaten across their last six matches, recording four wins and two draws in all competitions.
- The Silkmen scored 13 goals in those six fixtures and have scored at least twice in four of them.
- Macclesfield trailed South Shields by two goals twice before winning 4-3 in their latest league match.
- Anstey have won all three of their FA Cup ties this season, scoring nine goals across the three matches.
- Ansteyâs last six games have averaged 4.17 total goals, with both teams scoring in every fixture.
- Martyn Waghorn returned to Anstey for the 2026/27 season after helping the club win promotion in 2025/26.
- David Nugent provides Anstey with rare FA Cup-winning experience as a player-coach.
- Macclesfieldâs wider, deeper squad should become more influential if the match remains close after 60 minutes.
- The short break between Ansteyâs Tuesday match and this Saturday tie may affect their high-energy midfield.
- European odds of 1.55 for Macclesfield, 4.80 for the draw and 5.41 for Anstey leave little disagreement over the pre-match favourite.
- A live betting approach could become useful if Anstey keep the match level beyond half-time; the principles are covered in this live betting guide.
- Bankroll discipline remains important when combining a short-priced favourite with speculative correct score selections; see sports betting bankroll management.
Conclusion
Macclesfield should win this FA Cup tie, but Anstey Nomads are unlikely to be passive visitors. Loganâs side have already shown enough attacking quality to beat four opponents during the qualifying rounds, and the combination of Waghorn, Chitiza and the creative midfielders can punish any defensive disorganisation. The visitorsâ strongest opportunity is to remain compact, frustrate the home crowd and then use the pace and intelligence of their forwards in transition.
Over the full match, however, Macclesfieldâs advantages are substantial. They are operating one level higher, possess greater depth in every area and have just demonstrated their resilience in a seven-goal contest against another leading National League North side. Elliott gives them a reliable scoring reference, Kay adds quality between the lines and Duffyâs delivery can repeatedly test Ansteyâs defensive shape. Home support at the Leasing.com Stadium should also sustain momentum during difficult periods.
The recommended betting sequence is therefore Macclesfield to win as the safest selection, Over 2.5 goals as the best value play and both teams to score as a logical supporting option. More aggressive bettors can consider Macclesfield -1, while the speculative correct score prediction is a 3-1 home victory. Whatever staking plan is used, it is wise to compare prices before kickoff and keep speculative wagers proportionate. The fundamentals of combining correlated selections are explained in this same game parlay guide, while cautious bettors can learn about protection in our hedge betting article.
