There was little to choose between the two sides on Saturday at Townfield, as Robert Doran's second-half strike cancelled out Ben Hodkinson's second-minute penalty for Widnes.

It's Northwich first season back at Witton Albion after agreeing a new tenancy agreement to earlier this year. Wincham Park last hosted Vics' home games in the 2015-16 season.

Steve Wilkes' side were beaten 2-1 by City of Liverpool in their first game back at their new home last week.

The replay is Vics' fourth competitive match of the season, while Widnes' first fixture of the Evo-Stik League season takes place on Saturday, but co-boss Kev Towey doesn't see that as a disadvantage for his side.

"I don't want to use that as an excuse," Towey said.

"We spoke before the game about possibly arranging a friendly for midweek had the tie not gone to a replay.

"Although you don't want a replay, a competitive game is always better than a friendly so it does give us that boost ahead of Saturday's opener."

Burscough await the winners in the preliminary round, having beat 1874 Northwich 4-2 on penalties in their replay after netting a 120th minute equaliser to draw 3-3 after extra time.

Team News

Jay Roberts (knee) limped off late in the second half of Saturday's cup-tie and will be assessed ahead of kick-off at Wincham Park. However, Sam Sheen is unlikely to feature after being substituted on Saturday due to illness.

Sean Myler (knee) is still a couple weeks away from a return.

Former Widnes striker Billy Webb (thigh) is not yet ready to feature against his former club.

Connections

Webb isn't the only player to have represented both clubs.

Widnes goalkeeper Richie Mottram began last season with Vics, making a handful of appearances before returning to the Halton Stadium in September.

Midfielder Stuart Cook made 12 Widnes appearances last season having spent two seasons with Vics from 2014 to 2016.

Matchday Information

Date: Wednesday 15th August
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Location: Wincham Park, Chapel Street, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 6DA
Adults: £6
Concession: £4
Under 16s: £2