ROGER Pickering expects his Winnington Park players to prove they have made progress when they visit West Park this weekend.

They lost at Burrows Hill when the teams met there in September, seven days after a derby success against Northwich.

But improved form in the past month, including two wins from their past three games, has reassured the head coach his side are a different proposition now compared to then.

He said: “The game against Northwich was about mindset, nothing else.

“We got that right on the day, but I think that led to guys thinking we could just turn around and see off West Park because we’d beaten them before.

“They’re an organised side who play in a style that we’re learning, so I’ll be looking to see how much further on we are.”

West Park, second in South Lancs/Cheshire Division One behind Liverpool St Helens, will be formidable opponents.

They have won all of their 11 matches so far, including seven at home.

Pickering said: “The result doesn’t matter, so long as we perform.

“I’ve noticed a change in the past month; the players know now what I want from them.

“One or two have said they’re not scared of trying things, which is a sign their confidence is growing.

“I’m not worried about lads making mistakes, because they can be put right by coaching. It’s a lack of effort I can’t abide.”

Kick off is at 2.15pm.