Victory for Russ Wilcox’s men could see Trinity climb as high as 15th in the Pitching In Northern Premier League and confidence in the camp is high, despite the longest trip of the season awaiting the Blues. Standing in the way of three points, is Danny Grainger’s Workington. Promoted back to the level following a couple of ‘full’ seasons’ absence, after their relegation at the end of the 2018/19 season, the Reds are regularly in and around the play-off spots, and so far this season, things are no different, with Saturday’s hosts, currently occupying eighth spot in the table, as Grainger continues to enjoy his second spell in charge of the club.

Five wins and one defeat in their opening six home league fixtures of the season, perhaps point to the advantage the hosts have with their most northernly location, scoring seventeen and conceding ten. In truth, Ashton’s record is perhaps a little better, having won five from five, but with that, they have only secured a six goal positive goal difference as opposed to Workington’s, positive seven.

Overall, so far this season, the Holy Blues have conceded two goals per game, however Workington, despite their higher league position, have averaged a greater number (2.17) goals conceded, per game. WAFC have enjoyed some really good attendances, with supporters flocking to the Lake District, and boss Russ Wilcox will be hoping that a sizeable travelling contingent will make the longest journey of the season, to hopefully witness the first points of the season away from fortress Northolme at the Kal Group Stadium.

Seven points from four games, has certainly seem an upturn in the Holy Blues' form. From five points in seven games that had seen Trinity struggling. Now hopeful of continuing an upward trajectory, the boss is looking for an element of consistency, as he speaks ahead of the game:

"Let's hope we can carry on our impressive form. You know, we have taken seven points out of our four league games. I thought the performance on Saturday was outstanding. Whoever is travelling on Saturday, have a safe journey there and back - and please get behind the boys!"

Workington

An old football league ground, Workington AFC's Borough Park Ground certainly has plenty of old school charm. Set on the banks of the River Derwent, the last time Trinity visited was under joint bosses, Liam King & Ross Hannah, in April 2019. On the mark that day, for the Blues, in a 2-0 away victory, were Ashley Worsfold & Ant Wilson, as Trinity looked to maintain their play-off push & in the process, all but condemn Workington to relegation.

For the Trinity Faithful making the long pilgrimage north, the full address is Workington AFC, Borough Park, Workington CA14 2DT. Drive safely, enjoy the scenery - and see you there!

£12 Adults
£7 Concessions
£4 Under 16s
£2 Under 11s

Tickets can be purchased online ahead of the game, but please be mindful of a small admin fee placed on online tickets (for adults and concessions)

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Elsewhere

The other pick of games sees third placed Ashton United host league leaders Radcliffe at Hurst Cross. With the Robins boasting a 100% home record & Radcliffe with only one defeat in five away from home, things are set up nicely & with only sixteen miles and six points separating the sides...

Here's the fixture list in full!

Ashton United vs Radcliffe
Atherton Collieries vs Marske United
Basford United vs FC United of Manchester
Ilkeston Town vs Guiseley AFC
Marine vs Lancaster City
Morpeth Town vs Macclesfield
Stafford Rangers vs Bamber Bridge
Warrington Rylands vs Hyde United
Whitby Town vs Matlock Town
Worksop Town vs Bradford Park Avenue

Preview by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)