Why should I watch..?

Two sides in good form collide for a place in the FA Vase first round.

Northwich Victoria are unbeaten in their past four matches, and have won the past two, while their opponents on Sunday sit third in the Northern Counties East League’s top-flight.

The Rotherham-based outfit has enjoyed success in knockout competitions too, reaching the FA Cup first qualifying round following wins against Athersley Recreation (3-0) and Runcorn Linnets (2-1).

Their run ended in front of the BBC Sport television cameras last weekend when they lost narrowly against Frickley.

What they’ve said

“I thought the football we played during the first-half against Hanley last weekend was the best we’ve produced all season.

“Our passing and movement was excellent, and they couldn’t handle us at all.

“We slowed down in the second-half, but still ran out comfortable winners.”

Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager

Numbers game

Vics are unbeaten in five matches at Wincham Park, winning four of them, since a 2-1 defeat against City of Liverpool on August 8

It’s an important afternoon for…

Brian Matthews

An injury ended early his involvement in pre-season before a family holiday then delayed his return to the side once he’d recovered.

However a goal in each of his two starts, against Abbey Hey and then Hanley Town last Sunday, hints at a return to his best condition.

Last season’s leading-scorer will be hopeful he can continue that run of form and send his side through to the first round.

Vics team news

Manager Steve Wilkes is confident he will have everybody available.

Dominic Craig, Kieron Kenny and Regan Jarrett missed last Sunday’s success against Hanley Town due to work commitments, but all three return for this game.

One man who won’t be involved is Stuart McDonald after he completed a transfer to Runcorn Town earlier this week.

Form guide (past six games in all competitions)

Vics W W D D L L

Maltby W L W W W W

Route to this round

Vics Exempt

Maltby 1QR bt Ashton Athletic (h) 5-1

Last season in FA Vase

Vics First Qualifying Round

Maltby Second Qualifying Round

Essential information

When Sunday, September 16

Kick-off 3pm

Address Witton Albion FC, Wincham Park, Chapel Street, Wincham, Northwich CW9 6DA

Admission Adults £6, Concessions £4, Under 16s £2, Under 12s Free (if accompanied by paying adult)

Prize money Winners £725; Losers £250

Next round Saturday, October 13