Why should I watch..?

The curtain-raiser to a new season has added edge for being an FA Cup tie between neighbours.

1874, as hosts, start as slight favourites against local rivals Barnton – who will be a Premier Division rival this season following their promotion to the North West Counties League top flight last term.

FA Cup history

1874 Northwich have made it to the preliminary round on each of their past two appearances in the competition, bowing out to Prescot – after a replay – in their maiden appearance and then to Maltby Main, from the Northern Counties East League’s top flight, last year.

Barnton return to the FA Cup more than 60 years on from a replay reverse against Knutsford.

The Villagers did reach the first qualifying round in 1948, when they lost at home to Hyde.

“A lot of our guys haven’t played in the competition previously, so it’s a nice element to the game for them.”

Man to keep an eye on

Tom Bailey

The former Glossop North End front man, tasked with filling shooting boots vacated by Matthew Beadle following his switch to Colne this summer, has scored five times in pre-season.

His predecessor at the point of 1874 Northwich’s attack was on target more than 30 times last term.

“That’s why I’m here – to do what he did,” Bailey told the Guardian during an interview.

“I’ve set myself a target of scoring 30 goals and if I play week in, week out in my preferred position I think I can reach it.”

Helping his side to the next stage of the FA Cup, where coincidentally Colne would be their opponents, would be a perfect place to start.

Previous meetings

Barnton 0-1 1874 (Mid Cheshire District FA Senior Cup, Apr 11 2016)

Form (Friendlies)

1874 | D D W W W W

Barnton | W W L W D

Essential information

Kick off 3pm

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (NUS/OAP) £4, Under 12s Free

Prize money £1,500

Replay date Monday, August 8 (7.45pm)