AFTER three successive victories, Winsford United were striding towards Monday’s derby meeting with 1874 Northwich.

Then they were tripped up.

Resurgent Padiham put the brakes on that forward momentum by beating them 4-1 at Barton Stadium yesterday, Saturday – Blues’ worst home result of the season.

Frustratingly for manager Lee Duckworth it followed probably their best, at Squires Gate, in midweek.

“We’re still trying to find the right balance,” he said.

The 35-year-old has been able to select a more settled side in recent weeks, although his preparations this week have been disrupted.

Captain James Rothwell is not expected to play for at least a fortnight after sustaining a knee injury in last Saturday’s win at AFC Darwen, while David Davies and Ryan Mellor were both unavailable to play against Padiham.

Duckworth said: “I was guilty last time [we played 1874 Northwich] of having one eye on that game and influenced who I picked the game before.

“I don’t want to do that, although this is a weekend when I knew I’d have lads away for Saturday that are back on Monday.

“That’s just the way it is at this level when guys are juggling work and family commitments.

“For that reason we’ve tried to make sure the squad has more depth, because we’ll need it.”

He told the Guardian he learned other lessons too from the previous meeting with his former club last month, which Winsford lost 3-0.

1874 scored twice in injury time to widen that margin of victory.

“I know I’ve said it before but we are a ‘work in progress,’” added Duckworth.

“They were ruthless last time, and it made the difference.

“I think we’ve definitely improved since, and that’s reflected in our results.

“Wins breed confidence, and we’re no different.

“The spirit is good, and that’s arguably been the number one thing we’ve worked on since I took over.

“That’s been on our mind when we’ve brought lads in; their ability is important, of course, but so is what they’ll bring to the group as a person.”

And in a derby, particularly when it’s a fixture that has yielded three defeats in a row and 10 goals against, is when that togetherness will be tested most.

Blues start the contest 12th in the table, but only five points adrift of Congleton in sixth.

Duckworth said: “Below the leading teams, it’s so tight.

“Look at West Didsbury; they put together a run of results and made it to the top four.

“The teams below them, including us, want to do the same.”