Why should I watch..?

To see if 1874 Northwich can build upon an improved second-half performance against Abbey Hey on Saturday and record a first victory of the campaign.

They make a short trip to Whitchurch Alport, newcomers to the North West Counties League’s top-flight, buoyed by Scott McGowan’s penalty putting their first point on the board.

They could not conjure a decisive goal though.

The home team suffered a slender 3-2 reverse against Padiham at the weekend after sharing the spoils with Ashton Athletic on their Premier Division debut.

However in between they celebrated a notable FA Cup victory away to Coventry Sphinx.

What they’ve said

“We expect a tough game and Whitchurch may feel that they have a chance because we’ve not yet got that first win.

“They’ll be organised and will work hard, and it’s our job to try and get at them and put them under pressure.

“We did that to Abbey Hey in the second-half on Saturday, and were unlucky not to get the reward of a winning goal for our efforts.”

Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager

Numbers game

If selected, Danny Thomas will make his 150th appearance for 1874 Northwich

Man to keep an eye on

Joe Woolley

Followed a cameo as a substitute in a midweek FA Cup replay against Burscough by making a first league start in close to 18 months on Saturday.

He missed the whole of last season after sustaining a serious knee injury in a summer friendly.

The 21-year-old impressed too; his subtlety in possession and ability to dribble past defenders makes him a welcome addition to 1874’s attacking armoury.

1874 team news

Matthew Beadle and Paul Connor return after missing Saturday’s game, but work commitments rule out Lee Jackson, Mark Jones and Jake Parker.

Ryan Mitchell (groin) may be included in the squad but it is too early for captain Matthew Woolley (ankle).

Winger Ryan Jackson (knee) is waiting on an assessment of his knee injury and Sam Hind is still unavailable.

Form guide

Whitchurch D W L

1874 D D D L

Last season’s meetings

This is a first competitive fixture between the teams

Essential information

When Monday, August 20

Kick-off 7.45pm

Address Yockings Park, Black Park Road, Whitchurch, Shropshire SY13 1PG

Admission Adults £5, Concessions £3, Under 16s Free

Parking Available at the ground for free