1874 NORTHWICH have reason to be optimistic before setting off for Atherton tomorrow – they have won on both of their previous visits to Alder Street.

Conversely, they have yet to beat Colls in three previous attempts at Winsford, including a 3-0 reverse in the FA Vase earlier this term.

Ian Street’s side trailed at the interval during last season’s corresponding fixture, only for second-half goals from Danny Thomas, Mike Brandon and Ryan Jackson to secure maximum points.

Brandon’s solitary strike had separated the rivals when they met for the first time in a North West Counties League fixture  in March 2014.

1874’s task this weekend is more formidable than on their previous trips.

Colls have lost only one league game in front of their own supporters this season – against AFC Liverpool back in August – and have won eight of the next 10.

They also edged free-scoring leaders Bootle there on Monday thanks to Jordan Cover’s winner.

However Street’s side have been impressive on the road to date, losing only one of their 14 games.

They’ve won on nine of those occasions.

Previous meetings

Saturday, November 12 2016

FA Vase Second Round

1874 Northwich 0-3 Atherton Collieries

Saturday, December 5 2015

North West Counties League Premier Division

1874 Northwich 1-3 Atherton Collieries

Saturday, August 22 2015

North West Counties League Premier Division

Atherton Collieries 1-3 1874 Northwich

Saturday, March 22 2014

North West Counties League Division One

1874 Northwich 1-1 Atherton Collieries

Saturday, March 8 2014

North West Counties League Division One

Atherton Collieries 0-1 1874 Northwich

Northwich Guardian:

Mike Brandon has scored for 1874 Northwich on both of their previous visits to Atherton Collieries to play a North West Counties League game