CHRIS Herbert, Runcorn Town’s manager, has said he considers 1874 Northwich to be rivals for the North West Counties League title.

The teams meet at St Luke’s Barton Stadium tomorrow.

His side travels to Winsford with a five-point lead at the top of the table while their hosts, in fifth, are three points further back.

“The champions are going to come from one of the current top five,” Herbert told the league’s official website.

“There are seven points between 1874 and Hanley in sixth, and at this stage that’s going to be too much for them to catch up.

“All of the clubs at the top will play each other, and take points away in the process, but one of them will be the winner.”

1874 ran out 2-0 winners when the teams met at Pavilions in August, a game in which Stuart Wellstead and Scott McGowan were on target for Ian Street’s side.

They have won all five previous meetings.

Herbert added: “1874 were outstanding [in that game] earlier in the season – they really did a job on us.

“They’re one of the best teams we’ve met.”

To read his interview in full, click here.