Match Preview

Widnes FC continue their pursuit of a first league win of the season as they welcome NWCFL newcomers Whitchurch Alport to the Select Security Stadium. Due to Liverpool Ladies hosting Arsenal in the Women’s Super League Continental Cup in the evening, this game will kick-off at the earlier time at 1pm.

Widnes are currently without a win this season, sitting third-bottom in the NWCFL First Division table. However, Steve Hill’s side have performed admirably in recent weeks, fully deserving all three points at home to Cheadle Town and away to Hanley Town. However, last week saw the Whites’ performance level drastically decline as Hill’s men lost 4-1 at Irlam, being left to rue their defensive woes.

One place below Widnes are Whitchurch who are also without a win this season as they adapt to life in the First Division after having their application to play at this level accepted in the summer. The Shropshire-based outfit have lost three out of their opening six games, including a 6-1 home defeat against league leaders Barnton on Wednesday night.

Alport’s Luke Woolam has adapted to life in the NWCFL well, scoring 5 goals in 4 appearances to begin the season.

Widnes will be looking for a win that will ultimately kick-start their season. A win for The Whites would lift Hill’s side as high as 13th, albeit temporarily due to the earlier kick-off time.

Team News

Ronnie McCarthy is in contention to return to the Widnes squad after a 10-month absence. McCarthy was an influential figure last term before his season abruptly came to a premature end.

Tom Hackett is also in contention for a recall to the midfield after missing the trip to Irlam as he was unavailable. Paul Hynes will also be pushing for a start after being an unused substitute at Irlam after a few weeks of unavailability.

However, striker Josh Williams is unlikely to return to the 16-man squad after missing out on the trip to Irlam.

Alex Davies remains Widnes’ man-in-form after proving to be the Whites’ main offensive threat at Irlam, having scored 3 goals in his past 3 games. Paul Carney is also in form, having scored 2 in his last 2 games, including his consolation strike at Irlam.

Manager’s Thoughts

Widnes manager Steve Hill has warned his side not to underestimate the inexperienced visitors. “We’re hoping we can get our first win, but you can’t take anything for granted in this league. We don’t want to underestimate Whitchurch because we know what it’s like to be in their position. It’s our third year in the league now and you’d like to think we have a bit more experience.”

Hill went on to add that his side need to improve defensively and offensively if Widnes are to pick up all 3 points. “We’ve got to go out and make it happen. And that’s what we’re not doing at the moment. Defensively, we have to be a bit meaner and going forward, we have to add a bit of cutting edge to what we do, because it’s not happening at the minute.”