Why should I watch..?

Both sides have recovered from a disappointing early exit in the FA Cup to begin a new league season in encouraging fashion.

Vics have maximum points as a reward for eye-catching wins against Padiham and then City of Liverpool in their first week as a North West Counties League side.

Visitors Winsford have been similarly impressive in seeing off a fancied Barnoldswick last weekend before demonstrating their resilience during a 1-1 draw at Hanley Town in midweek.

It’s an occasion that marks a first league meeting between the two clubs since they met as Cheshire League rivals in the mid-1960s.

What they’ve said

“I watched Winsford at Hanley and they worked hard with 10 men, so we’re expecting a tough encounter.

“However our target is to continue what’s been a good start, and we’ve set a high standard already.

“We’ve shown an ability to change shape during a game and it seems to be catching teams out – they’ve not been able to work out what we’ve been doing.”

Paul Moore, Northwich Victoria co-manager

“We watched Vics against City of Liverpool and they played very well.

“We know all about their strengths and, after coming to see our game at Hanley on Wednesday, they’ll be aware of ours.

“I expect a typical derby, and that’s what we’re prepared for.”

Lee Duckworth, Winsford United player-manager

Numbers game

Vics are one of three sides, Charnock Richard and Runcorn Town are the others, able to boast of an unblemished record in the Premier Division after two rounds.

Only table-toppers Charnock have scored more than the seven goals netted by Paul Moore’s men so far.

Man to keep an eye on

Danny Kerr

Winsford United’s captain will be tasked with protecting a defence that will be tested by the pace and strength of Vics front pair Yaw Gyimah and Brian Matthews.

Has been among Blues’ best performers during the season’s first fortnight, giving midfield partner Ryan Hopper the freedom he needs to create chances further up the field.

Vics team news

The hosts will be without midfield duo Jake Pollard and Ian Willis, who have been among the team’s most influential performers during a successful start to life in the North West Counties League top-flight.

Full-back Michael McDonald is unavailable again too.

However goalkeeper Richie Mottram can continue between the posts though after a doctor ruled his wrist injury is not as serious as first feared.

Winsford team news

Blues can call on striker Jordan Johnson despite his dismissal at Hanley in midweek; the front man won’t start a three-match ban until next weekend.

Defender Chris Middleton is available again too after missing the trip to Stoke because of work commitments, while Brandon Moores and James Rothwell are in contention to return.

Newcomer James Grimes, a central defender, was an unused substitute on Wednesday.

Most recent meetings

Winsford 0-1 Vics (Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup, March 19 2015)

Winsford 0-3 Vics (Cheshire FA Senior Cup, November 12 2013)

Winsford 2-1 Vics (Mid-Cheshire District FA Senor Cup, April 25 2013)

Essential information

Kick off 3pm

Address Townfield, Townfield Lane, Barnton, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 4LH

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (NUS/OAP) £4, Under 16s £2, Accompanied under 12s Free

Parking Strictly limited at the ground. Northwich Victoria advise spectators to use available spaces at Barnton Library and Barnton Primary School, both located on Townfield Lane.