Widnes Preview and Squad Update

On Saturday we play hosts to Widnes FC for their first visit to the Skuna Stadium in the Evo-Stik League, they having been promoted from the North-West Counties last season after finishing in 2nd place in the Premier Division. The Whites have made a solid start to their campaign and sit firmly in mid-table, although they openly admit to be looking up rather than down! Joint managers Steve Akrigg and former Colls man Kev Towey took over the reins last season following Joey Dunn’s shock resignation, both continuing their playing careers whilst managing. Following their promotion, the managers reinforced their squad bringing in Dale Korie-Butler, Ben Cartwright and Bram Johnstone in from Ashton Athletic. Most recently, they have also recruited Rhain Hellawell and Matty Waters both on month long loans from Chester FC. Hellawell making his debut for Chester at the tail end of last season whilst Waters has previous Evo-Stik experience with Sutton Coldfield Town. Last weekend, Widnes fell victim to a rather surprising 3-0 home defeat to Chasetown, however the weekend before they scored an 81st minute equaliser away at promotion chasing Trafford through substitute George Webster and considered themselves unlucky to leave Shawe View with just the single point as they pushed in search of a late winner. For Colls, a number of loan updates: Adam Farrell has joined Prestwich Heys on loan until Christmas whilst Josh Peet continues his spell at Ashton Athletic where he is impressing. Young midfielder James Sigsworth has returned from a successful loan at Ashton Town and is back in contention for Saturday. On the injury front, central defender Ian Rowlands is nearly ready to return although Conor Gaul faces another month out with a suspected ankle fracture. Jake Kenny remains a long term absence as he recovers from a Cruciate operation. Date: 24th November 2018 Time: 15:00 Postcode – M46 9EY Admission – £7 adults, £4 Concession, £2 U12