Why should I watch..?

To see if Winsford can recover at the first attempt following a 3-1 defeat at in-form Widnes last time out.

Blues had won at Runcorn Town and Ashton Athletic in their previous league games away from St Luke’s Barton Stadium.

They travel to Blackpool to take on an opponent that earned a point following a 2-2 draw at Winsford back in October – new boss Andy Clarkson’s first game in charge.

They have collected 19 in total in nine games since he was appointed, rising from the relegation zone to 13th in the Premier Division table.

The latest three followed a 6-4 success at home to back-markers Barnton a fortnight ago.

What they’ve said

“We’ve done well against Squires Gate recently, and that’s a run we don’t want to end.

“Their pitch is a decent one, and playing on a decent surface is something that suits us.

“They’ve picked up under a new manager, and have put together a decent run of results recently.”

Lee Duckworth, Winsford United player-manager

Numbers game

Winsford are unbeaten in their past nine meetings with Squires Gate in all competitions

Man to keep an eye on

James Rothwell

With captain Sean Sherwood unavailable because of injury, he will be expected to provide a calming influence in the middle of the field.

Manager Lee Duckworth was critical of his team’s carelessness in possession during a 3-1 defeat at Widnes last time out, and Rothwell can assist in improving on that part of their game.

Winsford team news

Forward Jordan Johnson (knee) is still not ready for a recall after his recovery suffered a setback in training.

Danny Kerr is ruled out by an injury, as is influential midfielder Sean Sherwood. James Rothwell stands by to cover for him.

Manager Lee Duckworth expects to have everybody else to pick from, including front men Nathan Cotterell and Danny Hudson.

Form (past six in league)

Squires Gate W L L W W W

Winsford L W W L D W

Most recent meetings

Winsford 2-2 Squires Gate (NWCFL Premier Division, October 21 2017)

Winsford 4-2 Squires Gate (NWCFL Premier Division, March 25 2017)

Squires Gate 3-3 Winsford (NWCFL Premier Division, March 14 2017)

Essential information

When Saturday, December 23

Kick-off 3pm

Address Brian Addison Stadium, School Road, Marton, Blackpool FY4 5DS

Admission Adults £6, Concessions £3, Under 12s Free

Parking Free at large car park in front of club on School Road