Why should I watch..?

Winsford United will be desperate to recover at the first attempt following the disappointment of a last-gasp FA Cup exit at Maine Road last weekend.

Both their front players, Jordan Johnson and Michael Koral, opened their goal accounts for the campaign in a 3-2 defeat.

A slow start left them playing catch-up at Brantingham Road though, and they will need to avoid a repeat against opponents that recorded a notable victory at Jarrow Roofing on their knockout bow last Saturday.

After successive top-half finishes in the Premier Division, Barlick have been tipped by some as a potential surprise-package this season.

Numbers game

Barlick have proven to be difficult opponents for Winsford, winning on four of their previous seven visits to Barton Stadium since they were promoted from the second division in 2010.

However Blues have won two of the past three meetings in Cheshire, including 2-1 victory in last season’s corresponding fixture.

Man to keep an eye on

Ryan Hopper

Lee Duckworth brought in the midfielder from New Mills to be a creative spark from the centre of the pitch.

He missed last weekend’s FA Cup meeting with Maine Road due to a holiday, and is in line to make his debut for the club against Barlick.

The Winsford boss said: “I watched Ryan a few times last year and he didn’t disappoint on any occasion.

“He moves the ball intelligently, and likes to dictate the pace of a game.”

Winsford team news

Blues have been boosted by news that an injury suffered by attacker Mike Koral during last week’s FA Cup defeat at Maine Road is not as serious as first feared.

He is available for selection.

Midfielder Ryan Hopper could make his debut after returning from a holiday, while goalkeeper Mike Langley is back too.

Liam Collins and Robbie Hatton are unavailable, while player-manager Lee Duckworth hopes to have completed the signing of a defender in time for him to feature.

Remember when…?

Winsford played out an eight-goal thriller with Barnoldswick in a league meeting at Barton Stadium back in November 2013?

Michael Jones and Dominic Marie were both on target for Blues in the first half to establish an interval lead, only for a hat-trick from Kieran Lee for the visitors in the second period to secure for them a 5-3 victory.

Most recent meetings

Barlick 2-1 Winsford (NWCFL Premier, April 29 2017)

Winsford 2-1 Barlick (NWCFL Premier, October 15 2016)

Winsford 0-1 Barlick (NWCFL Premier, April 23 2016)

Essential information

Kick off 3pm

Address St Luke’s Barton Stadium, Kingsway, Winsford CW7 3AE

Admission Adults £6, Concessions (OAP/under 21s) £4, Under 16s £1