Why should I watch..?

To see if Witton Albion can extend a winning run to three matches by inflicting a first defeat of the season on their promoted hosts.

That will not be easy; Brig are unbeaten in the Northern Premier League’s top-flight, and also progressed in the FA Cup at the expense of Stocksbridge Park Steels last weekend.

However the Northwich side travel to Preston buoyed by collecting maximum points from successive games against Whitby (1-0) and Nantwich (2-0) over the Bank Holiday.

Upon arrival they will meet hosts who have taken four points from two home games to date, including a goalless stalemate with Warrington on Monday.

What they’ve said

“Our consistency has been good, and in every game we’ve played I think collectively we’ve done well - if anything, we should have more points!

“The important thing now is we don’t let those standards slip and continue with the good habits that we’ve formed.”

Carl Macauley, Witton Albion manager

Numbers game

Witton have kept a clean-sheet in five of their past eight Northern Premier League fixtures

Witton team news

Midfielder Billy Smart sits out suspended for the final time following his dismissal on the opening day of the season.

Albion are still awaiting international clearance for two new signings, and a delay means that duo is unlikely to be available.

Carl Macauley is hoping Delial Brewster and Matty Devine shake off a bug in time to be involved too.

It’s an important afternoon for…

Will Jones

The front man’s ability to link with his teammates was a feature of their attacking play during an impressive 2-0 win against Nantwich on Monday.

He had a clear sight of goal to open his account for a new season before the break, but sliced high from James Foley’s cut-back.

The 28-year-old will be keen to break his duck soon.

Form guide (league)

Brig D W D

Witton W W D L

Remember when…

Witton Albion previously visited Bamber Bridge for a Northern Premier League fixture in February 2016?

Rob Hopley scored twice for the visitors, who had fallen behind when Jamie Milligan converted a penalty, in a 4-1 win.

There were goals in between for Tom Schofield and Joe Newton, on loan from Wrexham, as Carl Macauley’s men became only the second away side to beat Brig in front of their own supporters that season.

Here’s how the Guardian reported it: Brig 1-4 Witton: match report

Odds (SKY Bet)

Brig 6/4

Draw 5/2

Witton 13/10

Essential information

When Saturday, September 1

Kick-off 3pm

Address Sir Tom Finney Stadium, Irongate, Brownedge Road, Preston PR5 6UU

Admission Adults £9, Concessions £6, Accompanied under 16s £1, Under 11s Free

Parking Limited at the ground. More spaces available at Brownedge St Mary’s Church nearby