Why should I watch..?

To see if Winsford can take the next step and convert promising performances into points.

Blues have responded to a disappointing early exit from the FA Cup by delivering vastly-improved displays in the games since.

However defeats against Northwich Victoria last weekend and then at home to Runcorn Town mean they have gone unrewarded.

Manager Lee Duckworth will want to see sharper shooting at Silsden to boost a goals tally of six from five games.

Silsden, promoted as Division One champions last season, have adjusted well on their return to the top-flight after two years away.

Their only defeat was in the FA Cup against City of Liverpool, and they brushed aside Padiham in midweek.

What they’ve said

“We were comfortably the better side against Runcorn, just as we had been for most of the game against Vics, and for the second game in a row we received compliments from the opposition’s supporters.

“We don’t’ get any points for that though, and everybody will feel better if we can get that first win.”

Lee Duckworth, Winsford United player-manager

Numbers game

Winsford are unbeaten in their past four league meetings with Silsden, and won 3-2 on their most recent visit to West Yorkshire

Man to keep an eye on

Michael Koral

The forward is still searching for a first goal of the campaign and will be keen to get off the mark as soon as possible.

Having support from the likes of Dave Short and Peter Watling has removed some of the burden he carried last season but he remains in integral part of Blues’ front-line.

His speed and movement off the ball make him a threat Silsden should be wary of.

Blues team news

Winsford are still waiting on an assessment of the severity of Steve Jenyons’ injury after he left the field on a stretcher during a 2-1 defeat against Runcorn on Monday.

The defender is definitely out.

Tom Fisher is ruled out too by an injury sustained during training while Matthew Cook, Ryan Hopper and Peter Watling are all away on holiday.

Form guide (all competitions)

Silsden W W L D D

Blues L L L D D

Last season’s meetings

None; Silsden were promoted from Division One as champions

Essential information

When Saturday, August 25

Kick-off 3pm

Address The Cobbydale Construction Stadium, Keighley Road, Silsden, West Yorkshire BD20 0EH

Admission Adults £6, Concessions £3

Parking Limited spaces available at the ground