Match postponed

Why should I watch..?

To see if Vics can pick up where they left off following a 4-0 win against Barnton on Boxing Day.

They have not played since, and return to action knowing they could climb into the Premier Division table’s top eight if they collect maximum points.

Steve Wilkes’ side will be confident of doing exactly that against opponents that have lost their past seven matches in all competitions.

Darwen have won only twice in the North West Counties League this season, and the most recent of those was back on September 5.

They have lost seven of their dozen fixtures to date at the Anchor Ground.

What they’ve said

“Our performance in the second-half against Barnton is among the best we’ve put in since I took over as manager.

“We kept a clean-sheet too, something we’ve been working hard in training to put right.

“With a bit of luck, we managed it as well.

Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager

Numbers game

Hosts Darwen have failed to win any of their past 15 matches in the North West Counties League’s Premier Division

Man to keep an eye on

Daniel Johnson

The left-back contributed an assist to two of Brian Matthews’ three goals during a comfortable 4-0 victory at Barnton on Boxing Day.

Has been a steady and consistent performer for manager Steve Wilkes since leaving Mossley to join Vics, and is making a contribution at both ends of the field.

Vics team news

Jay Hart (groin) and Kieron Kenny (thigh) are ruled out by injuries that prompted them to miss a victory on Boxing Day against landlords Barnton.

Rory Gorman and Antony Shinks are both rated as doubtful through illness, although manager Steve Wilkes is boosted by the return of influential defender Allen Weston.

The back-marker suffered a serious facial injury in a 4-2 reverse at Runcorn Linnets on November 18, and has not played for Vics since.

Form guide (past six in league)

Darwen L L L L L L

Vics W W L L W L

Most recent meetings

None; this is a first competitive fixture between the clubs

Essential information

When Saturday, January 6

Kick-off 3pm

Address WEC Group Anchor Ground, Anchor Road, Darwen BB3 0BB

Admission Adults £5, Concessions £3, Under 16s Free (when accompanied by paying adult)

Parking At Crown Paints next door to ground