Manager praises rebels

The match has been switched from Maine Road's Brantingham Road home in Chorlton to Stalybridge Celtic's 6,500 capacity Bower Fold stadium, such is the interest in the fixture.

Maine Road chairman Ronnie Meredith has told the FC United website that he was against allowing the club, formed by disaffected Manchester United supporters opposed to the Glazer takeover, into the North West Counties League. But now admits he was wrong.

"I was totally against them coming into our league at first and I've been proved totally wrong," he said.

"I was against it because at that point FC United didn't even exist, they didn't have a ground. I don't think they even had a manager.

"It seemed like total madness to me. But history has proved me wrong and I'm happy it has done because they have been fantastic for the league."

And, United assistant manager Phil Power acknowledged the compliment. He said: "We've proved during the last two seasons that we could be a boost for every team we play against because of our level of support. We have a hard core of about 1,800,which is brilliant."

FC United manager Karl Marginson has watched his blue rivals and knows they will be difficult to beat.

He said: "They don't half work hard. We've seen some clubs raising their game for us, but their players can't work any harder than they already do week-in week-out.

"They're a good honest side. As ever, though, we'll be looking to get three points."

Marginson's task will be harder as United's leading striker Stuart Rudd looks certain to be sidelined after fracturing an eye socket in Saturday's 8-0 victory over Glossop.

A crowd of 3257 took part in the club's inaugural People United Day.

Struggling Atherton LR will hope to pick up points at home to Bacup Borough, while Atherton Colls look to continue their good run at St Helens Town. Second Division strugglers Daisy Hill face a tall order when they entertain leaders Winsford.

NW Counties round-up