MATCH PREVIEW: Lots to ponder for Danny

With just two games of the regular season left, Danny Grainger has much to think about before his team embarks on another crack at the NPL West Division play-offs.

With injuries resurfacing and players in need of substantial rest between games, Danny has to consider his team selection very carefully over the next two weekends in order to have a fully fit squad ready for what will, hopefully, be the two biggest games of the season.

Dies he keep players ticking over by playing them or protect some by wrapping them in cotton wool? It is a dilemma he will be happy to face after last Monday’s fine result at Kidsgrove when a number of the senior players were rested.

Reds travel to Barnton on Saturday to play 1874 Northwich – a team with nothing, other than pride, to play for making them an even more dangerous opponent. They are currently in 15th position having won six, drawn six and lost six of their home games so far.

Only four teams in the division have a better record defensively than 1874 so the manager will be expecting a difficult afternoon regardless of his starting XI.

The ‘splinter’ group, formed after disillusioned members of the Northwich Victoria Supporters Trust voted unanimously to create a new club, have now been in existence for ten years and, apart from owning a ground of their own, are making good progress.

Back in November, we just edged out the ‘Greens’ 2-1 at Borough Park thanks to a couple of Lewis Reilly goals. On Monday, they lost by the only goal in their derby at Witton Albion.

Supporters travelling to the Townfield Stadium, Barnton (CW8 4LH) by car are asked to show consideration to the local residents. Parking is limited at the ground and reserved for players and officials whilst the adjacent Memorial Hall park carries a charge.

Free parking is available at the library (200 metres away) or the Primary School (400 metres from the ground).