Why should I watch..?
To watch how 1874 Northwich adjust to new surroundings as they begin a ground-share with Barnton after a six-year stay at Barton Stadium in Winsford.
The hosts concluded their preparations with an encouraging performance in defeat last year’s champions City of Liverpool, and are eager to make a positive start after a misstep on the opening day 12 months ago.
They are without key players through injury, suspension and unavailability, but notably have strength in depth to cover those absences.
Padiham only secured their position in the North West Counties League’s top-flight on the final day of last season and unsurprisingly have set their sights much higher this time around.
A side managed jointly by Adam Morning and Michael Morrison is likely to include plenty of know-how at this level.
READ > 1874 Northwich: season preview 2019-2020
What they’ve said
"We’ve always been diligent, and we’ve considered things that both Padiham and Winsford – who we play in our second game – will do.
“I expect Padiham to be far better than they were last season and we’ve watched them in pre-season.
“That only gives you an inkling, because at this stage teams are trying different things, but it’s always best to have as much information as possible.”
Wayne Goodison, 1874 Northwich co-manager
“Our target this year is to finish much higher. Not only that, but to play better football too and do things the right way.
“With some of the signings we’ve made, others we’re trying to, I’m expecting to do well.”
Adam Morning, Padiham co-manager
Numbers game
1874 Northwich have won seven of their nine previous meetings with Padiham, although the Storks will take heart from the fact their two victories – including in last season’s corresponding fixture – have been away from home
Man to keep an eye on
Sam Hare
Delivered his best performance for 1874 Northwich in the Macron Cup final last May, reminding supporters of what he is capable of.
He is again likely to be the man expected to make them tick, setting a tempo in possession and linking midfield and attack with his distribution.
Scored five goals last term, and will aim to improve on that tally this time around too.
1874 team news
Goalkeeper Tony Aghayere is unavailable and new recruit Nick Ward, a regular for Poynton in the Cheshire League’s Premier Division last season, stands in.
Mark Jones serves a suspension carried over from last season, while Jack Pritchard (knee) and Jack Irlam (ankle) are ruled out by injury.
Jack Tinning (ankle) is unlikely to feature either.
Form guide (pre-season)
1874 P7 W3 D0 L4 F12 A15
Padiham P7 W5 D1 L1 F15 A5
Last season’s meetings
1874 1-3 Padiham (August 25, 2018)
Padiham 1-2 1874 (December 29, 2018)
Essential information
When Saturday, August 3
Kick-off 3pm
Address Townfield, Townfield Lane, Barnton, Northwich CW8 4LH
Admission Adults £6, Concessions (OAP/Students) £4, Under 17s £1, Under 12s Free
Parking Limited at the ground to players and officials. Some spaces at adjacent Memorial Hall. Further spaces at nearby Barnton Library and Barnton Primary School, both on Townfield Lane
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