Match Preview

Witton turn their attention to cup football on Saturday afternoon when they welcome Lancaster City in the Buildbase FA Challenge Trophy Third Qualifying Round.

The two sides have met once before in the competition as recent as 2019, when Robert Wilson's penalty decided the game in the Dolly Blues' favour at the Giant Axe.

Only five of that matchday squad remain at the U Lock It Stadium, namely: Josh Wardle, Danny McKenna, Cesaire Lingouba, Tom Owens & Billy Smart.

Witton returned to winning ways in midweek with a deserved home victory over Atherton Collieries. A strong second half showing proved to be decisive after a tighter first period, with striker Callum Saunders continuing his recent hot streak in front of goal.

The Dolly Blues visit the U Lock It Stadium for the second time this season following their league victory here early in the campaign, but fortunes have changed for both clubs since then and cup football can be so different to the league campaign.

Lancaster had striker Sam Fishburn at that time, on loan from League Two Carlisle United, and the teenager was in goalscoring form but he has now returned to his parent club. However, the Dolly Blues still pose a threat and can be tough opponents any time.

Saturday's game gives Albion the opportunity to progress in non league's major cup competition, something they haven't managed in recent years.

Last season saw them receive a bye due to Scarborough Athletic's withdrawal then a home game against Bamber Bridge with a 2-0 victory, gave them a local "derby" with Nantwich Town, but that's where Albion's progress was halted as the Dabbers prevailed.

Changes in the competition rules mean that the tie will be decided on the day, with there being no extra time. In the event of a draw, a penalty shoot-out will decide matters and we all know how much of a lottery that can be.

If Witton can produce the form of the last few games and have a little bit of luck that everyone needs from time to time, then they can progress. But in cup competitions, anything can happen.

Team news:
Witton will again be without Nick Ryan (shin injury) while on-loan midfielder Nathan Okome has not been granted permission to play by parent club Chorley. James Lawrie will be assessed before kick-off after missing the last few games with a hamstring problem.

Kick-off at The U Lock It Stadium is 3pm.

WITTON ALBION FC,
THE U LOCK IT STADIUM,
CHAPEL STREET,
WINCHAM,
NORTHWICH,
CW9 6DA.

Parking: The Car Park is past the Social Club on the right.

Admission Prices: Adults £11, Over 65's/Disabled £8, Young Adults (18-21) £6, Under 18's £2. Please note: Season Tickets & Membership Cards are NOT valid for cup ties.

Advance ticket sales are available now via @skiddle

BUY ONLINE NOW ⤵
t.co/6ybwePzOWQ

We continue to have cash turnstiles available for on-the-day sales.

Online ticket sales are available until mid day on SATURDAY, 30th OCTOBER.

Cash payments at the turnstiles will still be an option for supporters who wish to use them except for "All-Ticket" games.

Please note: Unfortunately, we can't accept Card payments at the turnstiles.

Matchday Programme: £2.50 - On sale inside the stadium near the Museum & inside the Social Club.

Stadium Access: Before the game, the stadium is only accessible by way of the turnstiles.

Following the lifting of COVID restrictions, rules have now changed in and around the Social Club.

Social Club: The Social Club will be open from 1pm.

Social Club: Access to the Social Club is by way of the main entrance before the game but from half time onwards is accessible by way of the passageway within the main stand. The One-way system through the Stelfox Lounge has been removed. Table Service has been removed, so people can order drinks from one end the Bar and collect them from the other end. The screen where drinks are paid for at the cash point will remain in place - this is to protect Staff. Please note: There is to be NO Standing at the Bar. Face coverings are no longer mandatory but are recommended in enclosed spaces.

Please note: As the Social Club is a food preparation area, dogs are NOT permitted inside the Social Club with the exception of assistance dogs(hearing and visually impaired).

Please note: Alcohol is permitted inside the stadium but MUST be in a plastic beaker.

Refreshments: Food is now available once again within the Social Club and The Tea Bar (Queenies) will also be open inside the stadium.

The Junior Snack Bar will also be open at the Wincham End of the stadium and Junior Membership Cards can be collected from Alan Jackson. Juniors are welcome to use either Tea Bar within the stadium if preferred.

The Track & Trace System is being kept for the time being but is NOT mandatory. Documentation will be placed by the entrance to the Social Club for those who wish to use it.

Hand Sanitizers are positioned near to every entrance point around the Stadium & Social Club and are being retained. Supporters are welcome to use them.