Why should I watch..?
To see if Northwich Victoria can grant manager Steve Wilkes his wish of heading to Histon for an FA Vase encounter next weekend on the back of three successive wins.
The signs are encouraging after Vics put behind them three successive defeats in the North West Counties League’s top-flight by beating Padiham (4-0) and then 1874 Northwich (3-2) last week.
They will be motivated as well to avenge a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Whitchurch in the return that was their opponents’ first victory since being promoted to the Premier Division.
Tomorrow’s visitors Alport are struggling and have won only one of their past seven league games.
They occupy 15th position in the table, nine points clear of the relegation zone.
What they’ve said
“We were disappointed with the postponement on Wednesday because I had intended to give those lads that haven’t played much recently some time on the pitch.
“Both teams wanted to play, or at least wait a little while for the fog to clear, but the referee wasn’t prepared to take that chance.
“We were encouraged to get back to winning ways at home last weekend and our target remains the same; we want to go into the FA Vase game with three victories behind us.”
Steve Wilkes, Northwich Victoria manager
“I felt it was two points dropped when we drew 0-0 with Padiham last time out.
“I thrive on clean-sheets and that was the biggest positive to take from it.
“I don’t think we are in any danger of getting sucked into a relegation battle but it’s a competitive division and an unforgiving one too if you make a mistake.”
Luke Goddard, Whitchurch Alport manager
In numbers
Vics have failed to score only once in front of their own supporters in all competitions this season
A man in form
Harvey Whyte
The young midfielder had a starring role in all three of his team’s goals during a derby triumph against 1874 last weekend.
He provided an assist, both of them crosses from set-pieces, for each of Vics’ first two goals before scoring the third himself with a neat turn and shot following fine approach play by Darrhyl Mason on the left.
Vics team news
New recruit Lewis Brownhill, a member of Thatcham’s FA Vase-winning side last season, is unavailable and must wait a little longer to make his debut.
However Steve Wilkes has everybody else available to pick from including Brian Matthews who missed last weekend’s success against 1874 Northwich for personal reasons.
John Bennett (knee) and John Connolly (groin) are long-term injury absentees.
Form guide (past six league games)
Vics W W L L L W
Whitchurch D L W L L L
Discipline
Vics Y41 R3
Whitchurch Y48 R5
Previous meeting this season
Whitchurch 1-0 Vics
Essential information
When Saturday, January 26
Kick-off 3pm
Address Witton Albion FC, Wincham Park, Chapel Street, Wincham, Northwich CW9 6DA
Admission Adults £6, Concessions £4, Under 16s £2, Under 12s Free (if accompanied by paying adult)
Parking Available for free at the ground
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