Match Preview

After picking up their first win of the season last time out, Widnes FC will look to keep up their good form as they make the tough trip to league leaders Barnton on Wednesday Night (16th September.)

A brace from Ronnie McCarthy and yet another goal from the in-form Alex Davies ensured that Widnes beat Northwich Manchester Villa 3-2 to finally get up and running at the 7th attempt. Manager Steve Hill will hope that Saturday’s win will give his side the boost needed to rise up the table.

However, to do that Widnes must take on the tough task of facing the division’s early pace setters. Big-spenders Barnton, managed by former professional Leon Knight currently sit atop of the North West Counties First Division, having won 6 of their opening 8 games, with their only defeat coming at home against Hanley Town last month. Last time out, two stoppage time goals from Chris Lomax and Robert Kinsella rescued a point for The Villagers, as they drew 3-3 at St. Helens Town.

With an offensive arsenal containing players such as Lomax, Shaun Tuck and Kev Towey, Barnton will provide a stern test for a Widnes defence that has leaked goals so far this season, conceding 19 goals through their opening 7 games.

Team News

After recording a brace at Northwich Manchester Villa last time out, Ronnie McCarthy is unavailable for selection for the trip to The Villagers. McCarthy will be a huge miss for Widnes with his creativity going forward and his eye for goal.

McCarthy’s vacated place in the starting XI is likely to be filled by Luke Edwards. Edwards was unavailable for the trip to the Manchester Regional Arena and has started his debut campaign with Widnes well, scoring 3 times in 5 appearances.

Shot-stopper Ben Morrow is likely to keep his place in goal as recently dropped goalkeeper Gage Walsh serves his one-match suspension for being sent off in the 3-3 draw at home to Whitchurch Alport. Grant Hartley is likely to be preferred as Morrow’s no.2 ahead of Rob Cork.

Tom Hackett picked up an ankle injury in Saturday’s win over Northwich Manchester Villa which makes the midfielder a major doubt for the trip to Townfield. This means that Ellis Mavers or Michael Chojnicki could come into the side. However, manager Hill could potentially reshuffle his starting XI, opening the door for George McGrogan to slide back into the back four, allowing Danny Lomax to play alongside Alessandro Zarelli in front of the defence. Luke Edwards, Danny Burthem and Alex Davies are likely to be the supporting cast behind lone striker Jamil Campbell-Joseph.

Former Barnton forward Anthony Wynne is available for selection for Steve Hill, after signing for Widnes on Tuesday.

History

The two clubs met on four occasions last term in Barnton’s debut campaign in the NWCFL, meeting on two occasions in the league’s two domestic cup competitions. Widnes knocked Barnton out the Men United Cup with a 1-0 win at Townfield while Barnton returned the favour in the Reusch First Division Trophy, beating Widnes 2-1 at the Select Security Stadium.

In the league, Barnton did the double over Widnes, winning 4-2 away from home and 7-0 on the final day of the season.

Admission

For any supporters that wish to follow Widnes on the road in one of their shortest away trips of the season, the address of the stadium and admission prices follow below.

Townfield Lane, Barnton, Cheshire, CH8 4LH
Adults: £5
OAP’s: £2
Kids: FREE