WINSFORD United have beefed up their ranks ahead of a tough run of fixtures.

Striker Max Pouncey has been signed ahead of three North West Counties Premier Division matches against top-eight sides.

Pouncy, 24, formerly of Altrincham, comes into the squad in time for the Boxing Day meeting with eighth-placed Whitchurch Alport at Barton Stadium, kick-off 3pm.

Then on Saturday Blues host fifth-placed Irlam, kick-off 3pm, before starting 2020 with a trip to second-placed Longridge Town on Saturday, January 4.

Neither Winsford or Longridge have featured in a drawn game yet this season, the only sides in the Premier Division not to have done so.

Winsford officials have decided to extend their free entry offer in December to members of the Emergency Services as well as NHS staff. Anyone wishing to take up the offer should take relevant ID with them.

Winsford entered the festive period in ninth spot on the back of last Saturday’s 4-1 home win against bottom team Litherland REMYCA.

It was United’s ninth win from 20 games and bringing their goal difference to an even keel, having now scored 40 and conceded 40.

Blues took a grip of the contest with two first-half goals from Sam Madeley, his 12th and 13th league strikes this season, while the win was wrapped up with further efforts from Daniel Kerr (75mins) and Samuel Marshall (87).

Marshall deserved his goal after hitting the woodwork twice in the first half and setting up Kerr for his strike.