Why should I watch..?

It’s rare these rivals serve up anything other than entertainment.

And red cards, of which there have been six in their previous meetings - five of those for 1874 Northwich players.

Indeed, they have failed to finish any of the past three games against Runcorn Linnets with a full complement on the field.

The home team’s response to an agonising FA Cup exit, following a penalty shoot-out, at Ossett Town in midweek will be fascinating.

They take on opponents that have won six of their seven league games since a 4-0 reverse at West Didsbury & Chorlton back in August.

It’s a sequence that has propelled them to second in the table behind Runcorn Town.

What they’ve said

“I’m happy we’re playing Linnets; it’s a big game for the club, and the atmosphere and feel around the games against them are reminiscent of a cup tie.

“I think we’ll find out few things about ourselves and where we stand in relation to one of the best teams in the division.”

Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager

Numbers game

The statistic that 1874 Northwich want to desperately to change; they have failed to beat Runcorn Linnets in six previous attempts

Man to keep an eye on

Jake Parker

His ability to link midfield and attack has been a feature of 1874’s attacking play in the past few weeks.

The 22-year-old played in a more advanced position in the absence of Sam Hind, and appeared to enjoy himself playing closer to the opposition’s goal.

His passing range is important in a formation that makes use of the pace and direct running of Adam Whitlock and Taylor Kennerley out wide.

1874 team news

Captain Matthew Woolley returns after completing a one-match suspension, while Sam Hind is available again too after missing the FA Cup tie against Ossett Town.

Jake Parker has recovered from a dead leg, but Mark Jones (groin) is a doubt.

Ryan Mitchell (Achilles) is not yet ready to feature after returning to the club from City of Liverpool, while Danny Thomas and Joe Woolley (both knee) are long-term injury absentees.

Form guide (past six in league)

1874 D W D W

Linnets W W D W W W

Most recent meetings

1874 1-4 Linnets (NWCFL Premier Division, March 11 2017)

Linnets 1-1 1874 (NWCFL Premier Division, September 13 2016)

Linnets 2-1 1874 (NWCFL Premier Division, April 23 2016)

Remember when…

The teams met last season at St Luke’s Barton Stadium?

A 4-1 victory for the visitors condemned 1874 Northwich to a third successive defeat, and persuaded Ian Street to persuade from his position as manager.

Jason Carey had put the hosts in front, but they were outplayed from the moment Lee Jones was sent off as punishment for a second caution with less than half an hour played.

Goals from Freddie Potter, Kristian Holt, Zac Aley and former Northwich attacker Stuart Wellstead completed an emphatic win for Michael Ellison’s men.

The Guardian was there, and here is our report.

Essential information

When Saturday, October 7

Kick-off 3pm

Address Barton Stadium, Kingsway, Winsford CW7 3AE

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (OAP/Students) £4, Under 16s Free

Parking Free at the ground