Why should I watch..?

New boss Steve Wilkes picks a side for his first home game since replacing Paul Moore.

His first priority is to halt a winless sequence that stretched to seven matches following a 2-1 reverse at Maine Road on his debut seven days ago.

Six of those have been defeats too.

He could name up to five recent recruits in a new-look starting line-up; two of those, goalkeeper Michael Donlon and midfielder Sam Fitton, made their debut last weekend.

Visitors Widnes will have new faces in the dugout too after senior players Steve Akrigg and Kevin Towey were names as co-managers on Friday.

They succeed Joey Dunn, who resigned last month.

What they’ve said

“Confidence is understandably low, and these lads are going to need a bit of time to adjust to our ideas and methods.

“Their attitude has been good, and they’re responded to what we’ve asked of them so far.

“We’re focused on ending this run of poor results as soon as possible, although we have to be ready for a battle against Widnes.

“No team in this league gives you an inch – it doesn’t matter where they are in the table.”

Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager

Numbers game

In-form Brian Matthews has scored 10 of Vics’ 17 goals in league and cup this term – that’s close to 60 per cent of the total

Man to keep an eye on

Allen Weston

The defender’s arrival from North West Counties League rivals AFC Liverpool is something of a coup for Vics.

The timing is right too, with Chris Lawton their only recognised central defender.

He isn’t short of match-practice either after making 11 starts for the Reds in all competitions following a switch from City of Liverpool on the eve of the campaign.

Vics team news

Defensive duo Antony Shinks (knee) and Reece Lyndon (thigh) are both ruled out by an injury, while attacker Olly Walker (ankle) continues to convalesce too.

However three new recruits – Allen Weston, Johnny Gorman and Jordan Grant – could all make their debut after signing this week.

Form guide (past six in league)

Vics L L D L L L

Widnes L W W W L D

Most recent meetings

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

Essential information

When Saturday, October 7

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.