Winsford United (H) – 23/08 – PREVIEW – THE VANEUPEN ARENA – NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION
Report by Ethan Hoijord | Photo by Marc Gibbs
Following Vauxhall Motors’ home encounter with FC Isle of Man this weekend, Mick McGraa’s side are next in league action as they face Winsford United again at home.
United were founded in 1883 as Over Wanderers and The Blues have had a tricky start to the season, failing to win any of their opening three league games.
Lee Duckworth is manager of The Blues and was appointed in October 2015 after being the assistant manager at 1874 Northwich under Ian Street.
Northwich and Winsford share the same stadium so it was very familiar territory for the new boss who explained his desired playing style “We need to be positive and enjoy what we do. I don’t want lads to be afraid when they play – what’s the point of playing if you’re frightened of making a mistake?”.
Winsford United’s Chairman is Ray Duckworth, of relation to the manager, and was named in this role in March 2018.
Last season, Duckworth’s side finished 11th in the NWCFL Premier Division and their last three honours include two Mid Cheshire Senior Cups in 2013 and 2014 following their NWCFL Challenge Cup Win in 2011.
Perry Plowman is the club’s record goalscorer with 256 goals in all competitions. However, football fan’s are more likely to know of Everton goalkeeping legend Neville Southall and he played for the club at the start of his career in 1979-80 before making the move to Bury and Everton.
Daniel Boden, Robbie Hatton and Samuel Marshall have all netted so far this season as Winsford have scored three, in all competitions with a draw against Widnes at home in the FA Cup. Thus, despite Lee Duckworth’s side having a poor start to their league campaign they will ensure that the Vauxhall defence is kept busy.
The last three meetings between the clubs have seen Motors win twice and The Blues winning once, Winsford’s win being in August 2019 as they defeated Vauxhall 2-1 in the FA Cup extra preliminary round.
All support for this upcoming game is greatly appreciated thus we look forward to seeing you down at the VanEupen Arena!