NORTHWICH Victoria start a derby clash with Witton Albion this afternoon perched on top of the Division One North table.

Jim Gannon’s side lead the way on goal difference after Warrington’s draw with their landlords on Boxing Day left the title rivals level on points.

Vics’ scheduled encounter with Trafford, their conquerors in the Integro Doodson League Cup earlier this month, was postponed after the pitch at Shawe View was left waterlogged by heavy rainfall.

A goalless stalemate with Clitheroe last time out leaves the leaders looking for a return to winning ways at Wincham Park against their old foes, who they beat in August.

“We’re delighted to still be top of the league and have games in hand at this stage of the season,” said assistant manager Dave Conlon.

“We know we will face some really tough tests and games over the next few weeks, but as a team we are relishing the opportunity of starting another winning run.”

Last weekend marked only the second occasion that Vics have dropped points this season.

Coincidentally Clitheroe were the culprits first time around, inflicting on them a 2-0 defeat back in September.

“We obviously go in to every game wanting to win, but we can still take plenty of positives from last Saturday,” added Conlon.

“Before the game they were second top scorers in the league behind us, so we’re pleased to have kept a clean sheet.

“The defensive display of our whole team was good against a strong, attacking side.”

Vics, winners in eight of their nine league games at home this term, expect to have everybody available for selection.