Why should I watch..?

To see if this contest can provide a steer for what might happen in an FA Cup preliminary round meeting between the teams on Saturday.

Burscough have lost all three league games they have played to date, including a 3-0 reverse at home to Bootle last weekend.

It’s a sequence of results that has left them bottom of the table.

Northwich Victoria have enjoyed a much more positive start, and make the trip to Lancashire buoyed by a 4-1 win against neighbours Winsford United at Wincham Park last time out.

They will be conscious of a demanding weekend schedule that includes a return to Victoria Park before a meeting with 1874 Northwich on Monday afternoon.

What they’ve said

“Nobody likes these back-to-back games, do they?

“We’ll be fielding the strongest possible side tonight, and if that helps us lay down a marker for Saturday then that’s a bonus.

“For me though, the league is our priority this season.”

Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager

Numbers game

Burscough are the only team in the North West Counties League’s Premier Division yet to score a point this season

Man to keep an eye on

Liam Bickett

With Dominic Craig unavailable, the midfielder may have an opportunity to follow up an encouraging cameo as a substitute during Saturday’s success against Winsford United.

Can stake a claim for a regular starting place if he impresses Steve Wilkes again.

Vics team news

Dominic Craig (ankle) is ruled out by an injury sustained during Saturday’s win against Winsford, and joins Billy Webb (thigh) and Matty Clarke (leg) on the side-line.

Brian Matthews is available again, while Steve Wilkes will make a decision on full-back Kurtis Monson’s involvement later.

Form guide (all competitions)

Burscough L D D L L

Vics W W D L W

Last season’s meetings

Burscough 2-1 Vics (December 9 2017)

Vics 1-1 Burscough (September 2 2017)

Essential information

When Tuesday, August 21

Kick-off 7.45pm

Address Victoria Park, Bobby Langton Way, Burscough, Lancashire L40 0SD

Admission Adults £6, Concessions £4, Children £1 (or free with paying adult)

Parking None at the ground but available at Tesco superstore nearby