Why should I watch..?

Most observers can make a case that this is the most eye-catching fixture on the opening day of a new season in the North West Counties League top-flight on Saturday.

Both teams will expect to be among the contenders to win the title, and a meeting this early provides an opportunity to make a statement.

1874 Northwich have kept together a squad that reached the FA Vase semi-finals last time out, adding quality to their attack in the form of Matthew Beadle and Callum Gardner.

The Purps could argue they have an even more formidable forward line after recruiting Craig Cairns and Jamie McDonald from Runcorn Town and Warrington respectively.

Expect there to be goals.

What they’ve said

“I don’t mind having a big game like this one first up because it will focus the players’ minds from the first minute.

“There will be no chance of easing ourselves into a new season because the quality of opposition simply won’t allow it.

“We feel good even if results in one or two pre-season games haven’t reflected what we’ve done out on the field.”

Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager

Numbers game

Midfielder Matthew Woolley, 1874 Northwich’s influential captain, turns 28 on the day of the game

Man to keep an eye on

Callum Gardner

The attacking midfielder is likely to be one of two debutants – goalkeeper Josh Samberg is the other – in the 1874 Northwich starting line-up on Saturday.

Leading goal-scorer for landlords Winsford United last season, he will be tasked with delivering high quality from set-pieces as well as improving a supply line to front man Scott McGowan.

1874 team news

Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison will make a late decision on Jack Pritchard (knee), but Ryan Jackson (knee) is ruled out by an injury sustained in a friendly at Alsager.

Lee Jackson isn’t ready yet after only making his first appearance of pre-season during the closing stages of last Saturday’s friendly success against Middlewich Town.

Kazim Waite-Jackson is on holiday.

Form guide (pre-season)

1874 W3 D2 L2 F15 A13

Purps W3 D0 L5 F13 A15

Last season’s meetings

1874 1-1 City of Liverpool (September 19, 2017) Report 

City of Liverpool 2-0 1874 (March 26 2018) 

Essential information

When Saturday, August 4

Kick-off 3pm

Address Barton Stadium, Kingsway, Winsford CW7 3AE

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (OAP/Students) £4, Under 17s £1, Under 12s Free

Parking Free at the ground