Mike Parsons

Northwich Victoria secured a 4-0 victory over previously unbeaten Winsford United in a Midland Premier League derby, with goals from Mikey Lawson, Elliott Rokka, Joe Duckworth and Ryan Atkinson. Winsford’s defeat was compounded by red cards for Steve Jenyons and Matty Birchall, followed by a second yellow for Harry Johnson. Witton Albion were beaten 4-2 at home by Bootle, whose dominant performance prompted manager Ben Harrison to call the result a wake-up call. The report also covers league and FA Cup fixtures involving 1874 Northwich and Barnton.

Northwich Victoria opened their Midland League Premier Division campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Romulus at Runcorn's Apec Taxis Stadium, despite creating numerous chances and hitting the crossbar. Coach Ross Speight highlighted the performance, defensive solidity and clean sheet while acknowledging the need for greater composure in front of goal. Winsford United made a winning start, defeating Dudley Town 2-0 through goals from Ste Jenyons and Mykah Skervin. Barnton lost their North West Counties First Division opener 2-1 at home to Stafford Town after Jordan Sherlock's early goal was overturned by Eshan Greer and Sam Lynch.

Northwich Victoria and Winsford United’s fixtures for the 2026/27 Midland League Premier Division season are listed, including league matches and scheduled FA Cup, FA Vase and Midland Football League Cup rounds. The schedules run from August 2026 through April 2027 and include two meetings between the local clubs.

Local non-league clubs are finalising squads and pre-season schedules ahead of the new campaign. Winsford United have lost Elliott Coleman to 1874 Northwich, alongside several other departing players, but have recruited Jordan Johnson, Harry Johnson, Regan Hughes, Harry McGowan and Adam O’Mara. 1874 Northwich have also added Emmanuel Sholabi, Jelani Blake and Ben Crane, while Northwich Victoria have signed George Nugent. Friendly results have been mixed, with Witton Albion affected by injuries, and clubs facing concerns over hard, dry pitches after prolonged hot weather. The teams are completing their final warm-up fixtures before their league openers.

Local clubs Witton Albion, 1874 Northwich and Winsford United strengthened their squads ahead of the Northern Premier League West season with several new signings, including Wade Rutherford for Witton and Kenny Mwaliteta and Lewis Farmer for 1874. Winsford United confirmed the return of forward Niza Chilufya, while midweek friendlies saw Winsford defeat Witton and Northwich Victoria fall to Nantwich Town. Upcoming weekend fixtures were also confirmed for the region’s teams.

Results across multiple Mid Cheshire crown green bowls competitions detail match outcomes, standout individual performances, and league standings. Local clubs recorded a mix of dominant wins and narrow defeats, with several players achieving notable scorelines as teams positioned themselves for promotion, stability or continued unbeaten runs.