Match Preview

Widnes FC are looking to end a recent rotten run of form as they entertain Rochdale Town at the Select Security Stadium this coming Saturday.
Steve Hill’s side are without a win in their last eight games in all competitions, losing seven of those games including five consecutive defeats. Last time out, Widnes were swept aside as an Everton U21 side ran out 8-0 winners in the quarter-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup at the Select Security Stadium.
Searching for their first win since the 6-1 thrashing of Stockport Town in early October, Hill and his men host Mark Canning’s Rochdale Town side in a game that was originally scheduled for 19th September due to a double booking of the Select Security Stadium.

Town come into the game in a relatively poor run of form. Rochdale have only won once in their past eight games, a 3-1 victory over Atherton Laburnum Rovers in early November. Canning’s side haven’t played since 21st November, where they were beaten 3-1 by Stockport Town. The following week, Rochdale were 4-1 up against Holker Old Boys before the game was abandoned at halftime whilst last Saturday’s scheduled fixture against Eccleshall was postponed.

A win for Widnes would mean that Hill’s men would climb above Rochdale in the table, potentially as high as 13th if results go their way. A win for the visitors however would see Rochdale rise to 11th in the First Division table.

Team News

Widnes manager Hill has a virtually fully available squad to choose from for the visit of Rochdale. Midfielder Tom Hackett is the only definite absentee as he continues his recovery from a prolonged ankle problem that has ruled Hackett out for over three months.

Forward Connor Willis could return after a hamstring injury picked up in the 2-1 defeat to Holker Old Boys four weeks ago. Defender Calum Finch could also return to the 16-man squad after a period of unavailability.

Talisman Alex Davies should be fit for the fixture, despite limping off in the 8-0 defeat against Everton.
Saturday’s game also marks a milestone for midfielder Danny Lomax, who is set to become the four Widnes player in the club’s history to reach 50 appearances after teammates Tom Mitchell, Alex Davies and Paul Carney.

Jonathan Thompson figures to be the visitors’ main offensive threat, having scored 12 goals in 14 appearances this season.

History

Widnes have faced Rochdale on five occasions pickup their only victory against Town in 2013, winning 3-1. Rochdale have beaten Widnes twice, with the sides contesting two draws. Goals are virtually guaranteed between the two sides, with the sides sharing 22 goals in the five contests played since Widnes joined the North West Counties Football League in 2013.

Admission

To gain access to the stadium for the visit of Rochdale, entrance will be provided in the Sports Fitness reception after turnstiles were open for the game against Everton.

Adults can gain entry for £5, with concessionary rates costing £3. Under 16’s accompanied by a paying adult go free, whilst a programme and a copy of The Non League Magazine cost £1 and £3 respectively.