1874 Northwich will be looking to maintain momentum after a successful week.

After a couple of false starts due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the side co-managed by Wayne Goodison and Paul Bowyer finally kicked off their delayed season with two wins in four days.

A 3-0 home win in the FA Vase against Selby Town was followed by a repeat scoreline in their North West Counties League Premier Division opener at Barnoldswick Town on Tuesday.

And Jake Parker was to the fore on both occasions, netting three goals across the two games, as 1874 began life without the services of goal-scoring machine Scott McGowan after his departure to Nantwich Town last week.

So they will be looking to build on their positive start in their first home league game against Irlam at Townfield on Saturday, before visiting Squires Gate on Tuesday.

Parker and Aaron Smith gave Selby no end of problems in the Vase win, with both being on the scoring list.

The win could have been even more comfortable if 74 had taken more of the chances they created in the first half than the one polished off by skipper Matthew Woolley.

Taylor Kennerley gave 1874 a 12th-minute lead at Barnoldswick and Parker struck with a double in the 30th and 65th minutes at a notoriously difficult ground to achieve a result.

Townfield will again host a double dose of FA Vase action later this month thanks to Barnton joining 74 in progressing to the first round proper.

1874, who are tenants at Barnton’s ground, have landed Harrogate Railway Athletic, while Barnton have been paired with Bacup Borough.

The ties are due to take place on the weekend of Saturday, October 31.

Barnton secured their progress with a 4-0 success over Swallownest on Sunday.