Why should I watch..?

1874 Northwich will be expected to extend an unbeaten start to the season when Padiham visit.

However they were also favourites to see off neighbours Barnton in their previous home game, and were held to a 3-3 draw.

Still, they are full of confidence after an FA Cup replay success at Premier Division rivals West Didsbury & Chorlton.

The Storks have struggled in the campaign’s early stages, losing all three games they’ve played to date.

A 4-1 reverse at promoted Charnock Richard last time out followed a 4-2 drubbing when Northwich Victoria visited for a North West Counties League opener.

What they’ve said

“We don’t know any other way to play other than on the front foot, and by attacking.

“This is a group that contains a lot of young lads who are benefitting from the experience they’re having.

“It’s true we’ll probably get caught out at some point, but providing we learn from any mistakes we make then we’ll continue to improve.”

Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager

“1874 Northwich are a very strong side, and they’ve had a good, unbeaten start to the season.

“And so it will be a tough game for us.

“However a win would change everything, and bring back confidence into the group.”

Steve Wilkes, Padiham manager

Numbers game

Three meetings between the teams in league and cup last season yielded 12 goals.

The previous year, that total was 16 in just two fixtures.

Man to keep an eye on

Ben Woods

The full-back’s performance during a midweek FA Cup replay success against his old club was the youngster’s best in a short 1874 Northwich career to date.

Willing to join the attack, and support winger Taylor Kennerley in front of him, he was assured in defence too when West Didsbury attempted to put him under pressure.

Should Lee Jackson not be passed fit, he will likely get another chance to impress.

1874 team news

Leading goal-scorer Scott McGowan returns after recovering from a virus that kept him from playing in Tuesday’s FA Cup success at West Didsbury & Chorlton.

However Matthew Woolley is unavailable.

Wide man Ryan Jackson’s knee operation was a success in midweek, and will shortly start a period of rehabilitation.

Mark Jones (foot), Danny Thomas and Joe Woolley (both knee) continue to convalesce, while a decision will be left until the last minute on Lee Jackson’s involvement.

Ben Woods stands by.

Remember when?

1874 played out a nine-goal thriller with the Storks during a North West Counties League top-flight encounter two years ago?

Matthew Beadle was on mark twice for the home team, as was Ryan Jackson, before Stuart Wellstead made it 5-3.

Kieron Pickup’s reply made Ian Street’s side sweat late on.

The Guardian was there. To read how we reported it, click here.

Most recent meetings

Padiham 1-3 1874 (NWCFL Premier Division, March 25 2017)

1874 1-2 Padiham (NWCFL Premier Division, March 4 2017)

Padiham 2-3 1874 (League Cup First Round, October 1 2016)

Essential information

Kick off 3pm

Address Barton Stadium, Kingsway, Winsford CW7 3AE

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (OAP/Students) £4, Under 16s Free

Parking Free at the ground