Vics could feature up to three new recruits following an announcement on Friday that Runcorn Linnets duo Matthew Holmes and Chris Lawton, as well as Winsford United midfielder George Riley, have transferred to Townfield Lane.

Their immediate objective will be to assist their new club with ending a five-match run without a win in league and cup.

Four of those have ended in a defeat.

Bootle arrive at Barnton after an inconsistent start to the season that has seen them exit the FA Cup as well as lose Premier Division clashes with Hanley and Runcorn Town.

It leaves them 10 points adrift of the latter after seven games, a gap they will seek to close by beating Paul Moore’s men.

What they’ve said

“I’ve always said we’ll need a couple of months to understand the level we’re playing at and also what we need to do in order to be competitive.

“That’s a work in progress, but I think the new signings will help us to do that.”

Paul Moore, Northwich Victoria co-manager

Numbers game

In-form Brian Matthews has scored eight of Vics’ 14 goals in league and cup this term – that’s close to 60 per cent of the total

Man to keep an eye on

Matthew Holmes

The goalkeeper arrives at Townfield Lane with a brief to replace Richie Mottram following his switch to Widnes earlier this month.

His place at Runcorn Linnets this season has been taken by Terry Smith, and a transfer to Vics will enable him to play regularly again.

There is likely to be an untried combination in front of him with fellow new recruit Chris Lawton set to partner Antony Shinks – himself only a recent arrival – at the heart of Vics’ defence.

Vics team news

Manager Paul Moore could hand a debut to three new signings – goalkeeper Matthew Holmes, defender Chris Lawton and midfielder George Riley – after their registrations were completed on Friday.

However captain, and defensive lynchpin, Reece Lyndon faces a lengthy spell on the side-lines after suffering a thigh injury during last week’s FA Vase encounter with Stockport Town.

Form guide (past six in all competitions)

Vics L D L L L W

Bootle L W D L W D

Most recent meetings

None, this is the first time they have played each other in a competitive fixture

Essential information

When Saturday, September 16

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.