1874 v Abbey Hey: preview

1874 have recovered from the disappointment of a home defeat against AFC Liverpool in the way manager Ian Street will have wanted – by winning back-to-back games.

However they have had to come from behind both times.

Their record at the St Luke’s Barton Stadium this term is encouraging, with five wins from seven league matches.

Abbey Hey boss Luke Gibson was disappointed with his side’s display in a 2-0 home defeat against Hanley last weekend, but his side recovered to eliminate higher-ranked Trafford from the Manchester Premier Cup in midweek.

Numbers game

1874 Northwich have won all five previous meetings between the teams in league and cup.

Ian Street’s side have also collected most points from home fixtures so far this season in the North West Counties League’s top flight.

However Abbey Hey are comfortable travellers, winning three of their five Premier Division fixtures on the road.

Man to keep an eye on

Sam Hare

The recent recruit from Glossop North End has made an instant impact. He scored an equaliser on Tuesday, then combined with substitute Rick Bailey to set up the winning goal.

His delivery from set pieces was dangerous, and he constantly made himself available to receive the ball even when a crowded defence closed off space.

1874 v Barnton: five talking points

1874 team news

Danny Thomas returns in defence after missing Tuesday’s 2-1 win against Barnton for personal reasons.

Paul Connor (ankle) and Ryan Jackson (knee) are still both ruled out by injury, although the former is edging closer to a return. Midfielder Neil Chappell sits out the final game of a four-match suspension.

In-form Sam Hind is unavailable to face his former club.

Most recent meetings

1874 2-1 Abbey Hey (NWCFL Premier Division, February 2 2016)

Abbey Hey 0-1 1874 (NWCFL Premier Division, December 1 2015)

Abbey Hey 0-4 1874 (NWCFL Premier Division, September 27 2014)

Form (past six in league)

1874 W L W D W D

Abbey L W D L W W

Essential information

Address St Luke’s Barton Stadium, Wharton Road, Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3AE

Kick off 3pm

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (NUS/OAP) £4, Under 12s Free