Atherton Collieries will look to secure safe passage through to round three of the Lancashire FA Challenge Trophy when step three side Lancaster City visit the Dreams2Reality Stadium on Tuesday night.
Michael Clegg’s men saw their run of three consecutive league victories ended by a 2-0 defeat at high-flying Nantwich Town last time out, meaning their upcoming cup clash provides an ideal opportunity to return swiftly to winning ways ahead of another Friday night outing against Vauxhall Motors.
The Colls will have to produce what would (on paper, at least) be an upset to accomplish that mission, however, with Lancaster currently residing one level higher in the Northern Premier League’s top flight.
And the Dolly Blues have proven to be a relatively tough side to beat so far this season, sitting 9th in the league at the time of writing, having taken 28 points (six wins, 10 draws, three defeats) from 19 games, a total which leaves them just three points adrift of the play-off places.
In this competition, Tuesday’s opponents successfully navigated round one by dispatching Garstang 5-1, in a game where former Colls defender Dylan Thompson was on the scoresheet.
And Thompson could be joined by several others in making a brief return to Atherton for this tie, with Lewis’ Coulton and Mansell both having started Lancaster’s last league game (a goalless draw with Worksop Town) whilst Marcus Cusani and Nathan Caine were listed amongst the substitutes. Dylan Moonan has also been a frequent member of the squad, but did not feature in that most recent fixture.
So, with a number of interesting narratives potentially at play and a chance to move one step closer to silverware up for grabs, this game is shaping up as one not to be missed.
And for those interested in attending on Tuesday night, tickets will be available to purchase via our cash and turnstiles, priced as follows (Please note: 1916 Club memberships are NOT valid for admission to this fixture):
Adults: £8
Concessions/Students: £5
Under 18s: £3.
