Why should I watch..?

Simple; because it’s the tie of the round.

Witton Albion enjoyed success in knockout competitions last season, including a run to the FA Trophy first round, and have saved their best performances under manager Carl Macauley for big cup ties.

They will need to produce another to eliminate South Shields, who have not lost a competitive fixture since a home reverse against North Shields in the Northern League last November.

They head to Northwich buoyed by winning all of the games they have played this season, which leaves them occupying top spot in the Northern Premier League’s First Division North.

What they’ve said

“We’ve been in this position recently, when we’re not expected to get through, and got great results.

“I believe in these lads, and they’re more than capable of doing the same again this weekend.

“We’re planning for a win, and to reach the next stage.”

Carl Macauley, Witton Albion manager

“It will be unusual for us to be slight underdogs, and we are – any side that goes into a game against a side from a higher level should be seen that way.

“But we’ll certainly not fear them, and we’ve done our homework. And I’m sure they’ll be the same.”

Graham Fenton, South Shields co-manager

Numbers game

Witton eliminated three higher-ranked teams – Buxton, Kettering and Boston United – from FA competitions last season.

However their task tomorrow is to end an unbeaten run for South Shields that has so far lasted 44 matches.

Man to keep an eye on

Steven Tames

The front man, who has been on target twice for Albion this season, is expected to the side after he was rested for Monday’s 2-0 defeat at home to Altrincham.

Has carried on where he left off last season, when he contributed 17 goals, as one of Witton’s biggest threats.

Witton team news

Ben Hedley, a teenage midfielder who has impressed so far during a loan spell, has not been granted permission to take part by parent club Morecambe.

However manager Carl Macauley does hope to have Matty Devine available again after the full-back missed the past three games with a hamstring injury.

Route to this round

Witton EPR Exempt; PR Exempt

South Shields EPR Exempt; PR bt Bridlington (h) 3-1

Form

Witton L W D W W D

South Shields W W W W W

Most recent meetings

South Shields 0-2 Witton (FA Cup 1QR, September 19 1998)

Essential information

When Saturday, September 2

Address Wincham Park, Chapel Street, Wincham, Northwich CW9 6DA

Kick off 3pm

Replay date Tuesday, September 5 (kick-off 7.45pm)

Prize money £3,000

Admission Adults £10, Concessions (OAP/Students) £7, Under 18s £3, Members of HM Armed Forces Free