MATCH PREVIEW: Atherton Colls v Rams

Preview by Tony Cunningham

The Rams make the short hop across Bolton to take on old rivals Atherton Collieries at the Kensite Stadium (M46 9EY)

Colls were promoted to the Evo-Stik League last season having clinched the North West Counties League title, and enjoyed a fruitful first year at the higher level.

Having finished the campaign in a creditable 10th spot, they then collected their first piece of silverwear at this level by defeating Coalville Town from the Premier Division in the Final of the Integro League Cup, by 2 goals to 1 at Alfreton Town’s ground.

On the way to the final they just happened to eliminate the Rams at their place in the quarter final 2-0, whilst also defeating us there in the League a couple of weeks later by virtue of a late free-kick which edged the five goals scored on the day, in their favour.

They would have regarded that as fair justice, after we ended their excellent ten game unbeaten run by defeating them 1-0 at home in early March.

The two clubs have met many times over the years, mainly in the NWCFL, so old rivalries will be renewed on Monday, and hopefully a good number of Rammy supporters will be there cheering the lads on in what is certain to be a decent crowd.

Still out for the visitors is Tom Kennedy. The farcical situation regarding the application for his International Clearance following his stay in Wales with Bangor City, has still not materialised, much to the frustration of both the player and the club.

Greg Daniels is also likely to be missing, as is captain Dean Stott who suffered a nasty injury when colliding with the advertising boards at Kidsgrove on Saturday.