Why should I watch..?

To see how 1874 Northwich respond after having 10 days to figure out how they intend to end a wait to record a first victory.

They have drawn three, and lost the others, of their six North West Counties League fixtures to date – conceding 15 goals along the way.

A break has allowed key men like captain Matthew Woolley (ankle) and Scott McGowan (hamstring) to recover more fully from injuries.

They host a Litherland side that thrashed Abbey Hey on Saturday to collect maximum points for the first time since they were promoted at the end of last season.

They have though celebrated notable knockout wins against Charnock Richard and AFC Emley in the FA Cup and FA Vase respectively.

What they’ve said

“Our sense is that there isn’t a problem physically, nor can we ask any more in terms of effort or work-rate.

“However it’s undeniably true, and for various reasons, that the mind-set of some players hasn’t been right.

“We’re not a bad side, and those lads that achieved what they did last season haven’t become poor players either since then.

“But the good habits they got into simply haven’t been carried over into this year.”

Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager

Numbers game

1874 Northwich have gone nine matches without a victory in all competitions – the longest sequence in the club’s short history

Man to keep an eye on

James Coates

He has been recruited to stand in for Matthew Green, who is banned after he was shown a red card in a 3-0 defeat at Squires Gate last time out.

His know-how, and vocal presence, will be invaluable behind a defence that has been shaky in the opening month of the campaign.

1874 team news

Goalkeeper Matthew Green serves a one-match ban as punishment for his dismissal at Squires Gate.

Management duo Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison have registered experienced custodian James Coates to take his place.

Matthew Beadle, Lee Jackson and Kyle Riley are all unavailable, while Danny Meadowcroft may need a little longer before he is ready for a return.

Danny Thomas returns, while Matthew Woolley (ankle) is hopeful of being passed fit.

Form guide (past six games all competitions)

1874 L D L D D D

Litherland W W D D W L

Last season’s meetings

None; this is the first competitive meeting between the teams

Essential information

When Tuesday, September 11

Kick-off 7.45pm

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