Barnton will reach the FA Vase first round for the first time in the club’s history if they see off lower-ranked Ashton Town on Saturday.
However September has been a month to forget for Steve Lloyd’s side, with four league defeats that have seen them concede 18 goals.
That includes 10 in the past seven days; a 4-1 reverse at West Didsbury last weekend was followed by a six-goal hammering on home turf against Hanley 48 hours later.
They have fonder memories of this competition though, scoring five times to dismiss Harworth Colliery a fortnight ago.
Numbers game
Barnton have beaten Ashton Town in each of their four meetings since the Villagers were promoted from the Cheshire League.
That includes two games at Edge Green Street that yielded a dozen goals in total.
Ashton have lost nine of their 10 fixtures in the North West Counties League second tier this term, including successive 5-1 defeats.
Only back-markers Eccleshall have a worse defensive record.
Man to keep an eye on
Chris Smith
Has been Barnton’s most reliable player in front of goal this term, scoring seven times.
The former Alsager striker was also on target against Ashton last season.
They will need him to shoot sharply again against opponents who have a poor defensive record to date – averaging more than three goals against in 10 league games.
Barnton team news
Barnton are boosted by the return of attacking midfielder Chris Bandell, a summer signing from Warrington’s reserves, after he recovered from a groin injury.
Manager Steve Lloyd has also called up full-back Owen Dursley from the Villagers’ reserves as a reward for his performances so far this season.
However defensive duo Jack McKay and Nath Williams remain on the sidelines.
Most recent meetings
Barnton 3-0 Ashton Town (NWCFL Division One, April 27 2016)
Ashton Town 2-3 Barnton (NWCFL Division One, September 19 2015)
Ashton Town 3-4 Barnton (NWCFL Division One, November 29 2014)
Form (past six in all competitions)
Ashton L W L L L L
Barnton L L W L L D
Essential information
Address Edge Green Street, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan WN4 8SL
Kick off 3pm
Replay date Monday, September 26 (kick off 7.45pm)
Prize fund £800
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