Morecambe return to the Halo Aerospace Stadium this week for their final pre-season matches under new manager Adam Lakeland. The Shrimps face AFC Fylde on Tuesday and Barrow AFC on Saturday after a challenging 2025 campaign that saw them finish 22nd in the National League with just 38 points from 46 games, ending with a 5-0 loss to Forest Green on April 25, 2026.
What’s on the agenda for Morecambe’s pre-season finale?
Lakeland’s side have played six away games so far in pre-season, with surfaces ranging from 3G pitches to dry, sticky grass. The manager is now excited to see his team play on their home pitch, which head groundsman Tom Wells has prepared in a short time. "The pitch looks really good," Lakeland said, "and I know it’ll play a lot better. Hopefully, that’ll help us have more fluidity in our play."
Why are these matches important for Morecambe?
The Shrimps will test themselves against strong opposition, with AFC Fylde having won the National League North last season. Barrow AFC, a National League side, will provide another tough challenge. Lakeland believes these games will be a good measure of his team’s progress after a difficult 2025 season, where they scored 66 goals but conceded 103, finishing 70 points behind leaders York.
What does Lakeland expect from his team?
The manager is confident his squad is ready for the home games and the improved pitch conditions. "We’re ready for it, and I’m sure the supporters are too," he said. "We’ve been on 3G pitches too much, but now we’re back on grass, which should suit our style better." Lakeland is also looking forward to the challenge of facing two National League teams, which will push his players further ahead of the new season.
What’s next for Morecambe after pre-season?
After these final two matches, Morecambe will turn their focus to the upcoming National League North season. With a new manager at the helm and a fresh start, the Shrimps will aim to improve on their recent form, which saw them lose their last five matches of the 2025 season.
