Why should I watch..?

Vics’ response to a midweek defeat during which they conceded seven goals will be fascinating.

They have improved significantly in the past fortnight as wins against Irlam and Congleton, either side of a penalty shoot-out success at Whitchurch in the Macron League Cup, have shown.

Three successive league wins is a feat Northwich haven’t managed in more than a year.

That said, Steve Wilkes’ men will fancy their chances against opponents that have won only once in the North West Counties League in front of their own supporters this season.

However that was last time out when Abbey Hey beat 1874 Northwich.

They had lost four of their previous six Premier Division games on home turf.

What they’ve said

“It was a bit of a freak result [against Barnton], and I take full responsibility.

“Abbey Hey won’t make it easy for us, but our priority is to get back into the good habits that helped us to win the past couple of league games.”

Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager

Numbers game

Stay until the end, for almost a third of the goals Vics have conceded this season have been in the final quarter-hour.

That’s the same period that has been most productive for Abbey Hey’s attack.

Man to keep an eye on

Jay Hart

His partnership with Brian Matthews at the point of Vics’ attack showed promising initial glimpses against Barnton on Wednesday.

The striker has a proven track-record at this level, and manager Steve Wilkes hopes the ex-Colne man can ease the burden on the club’s leading goal-scorer.

Vics team news

Full-back Daniel Johnson (ankle) is a doubt after succumbing to injury during a defeat against Barnton in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup in midweek.

However midfielder John Bennett has recovered from an illness, and is available again.

Vics latest new recruit, front man Jay Hart, could make his league debut after scoring against the Villagers on his first appearance following a switch from Padiham.

Defensive duo Antony Shinks (knee) and Reece Lyndon (thigh) are still ruled out, as is front man Olly Walker (ankle).

Form guide (past six in league)

Abbey Hey W L D L L W

Vics W W L D L L

Most recent meetings

Vics 0-2 Abbey Hey (NWCL Premier Division, August 26 2017)

Essential information

When Saturday, October 28

Kick-off 3pm

Address Abbey Stadium, Goredale Avenue, Gorton, Manchester M18 7HD

Admission Adults £5, Concessions £3, Under 16s Free

Parking Available for free at the ground