Why should I watch..?

Winsford were denied an opportunity to respond to a four-goal hammering at AFC Liverpool when their scheduled meeting with Bootle last weekend was called off.

Blues have been left to smart since, and will be desperate for a return to winning ways against AFC Darwen.

They remain in a promising position though, and second-placed Runcorn Linnets are only two points better off in the table.

The visitors arrive in town buoyed by a 1-0 win at Barnoldswick last time out, helping them to forget heavy defeats against Padiham and Congleton.

What they’ve said

“AFC Darwen always leave you feeling you’ve been in a battle, and I don’t expect this game to be any different.

“That means we have to be at it from the start of the game.”

Lee Duckworth, Winsford United player-manager

Numbers game

Blues protect an unbeaten record this season at St Luke’s Barton Stadium, where they have beaten Barnoldswick and Widnes

Man to keep an eye on

Sean Sherwood

Lee Duckworth will seek another imposing display from the midfielder, especially after a promising debut against Barnton earlier this month.

However even the former Mossley man was powerless to prevent a heavy 4-0 defeat at AFC Liverpool last time out.

“Sean is a leader who I believe can help some of our younger players to make progress,” said Blues’ player-manager.

Winsford team news

Blues will be without attacking duo Jordan Johnson (knee) and Michael Koral (thigh), who are ruled out by an injury.

Fellow front-runner Brandon Moores (hamstring) is a doubt to feature, but has returned to training.

Midfielder George Riley has left this week, and signed for Premier Division rivals Northwich Victoria.

Form (league)

Winsford L D W L W D

Darwen W L L D W L L

Most recent meetings

Darwen 2-2 Winsford (NWCFL Premier Division, April 6 2017)

Winsford 1-1 Darwen (NWCFL Premier Division, September 24 2016)

Darwen 1-2 Winsford (NWCFL Premier Division, March 19 2016)

Essential information

When Saturday, September 16

Kick off 3pm

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

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

Parking Available for free at the ground