Non-league preview (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Non-league preview

8:56am Friday 2nd December 2011 in Clitheroe FC

CHORLEY step into the Gigg Lane cauldron tomorrow in the biggest game in the Evo-Stik Premier Division as they aim to maintain their promotion push.

Garry Flitcroft’s men are in fourth spot, two places and seven points better off than their FC United hosts, and are determined to keep up with leaders Chester. The Magpies have only won two of their last six league games but go into the game high on confidence and beat FC United 2-0 at Victory Park earlier in the season.

Clitheroe earned an excellent 2-2 draw at high-flying Skelmersdale United in midweek and look to go one step further when they welcome the Evo-Stik League First Division’s bottom side Cammell Laird to Shawbridge.

The match against a side who have won just one of their last 18 games offers Carl Garner’s men the chance to put extra space between themselves and the drop zone.

AFC Darwen face the toughest test possible as they tackle Wigan Robin Park in the North West Counties League First Division Trophy.

The Salmoners ran the First Division leaders close last month as they were edged out in a five-goal thriller.

Manager Kenny Langford is hoping for an upturn in fortunes and a first win since a 4-1 success over Formby on October 8.

Nelson are also in First Division Trophy action as they face Formby with the game being switched to the Merseyside club because of a problem with the Victoria Park floodlights.

In the North West Counties League Premier Division Ramsbottom aim to stay at the summit as they entertain Ashton Athletic. The Rams, who have smashed 14 goals past Ashton in their past four meetings.

Barnoldswick are in third spot, just two points off the top with games in hand and they head down the M6 into Staffordshire for their game at Alsager Town while Bacup Borough make the trip to Flixton.

Padiham are also in action as they welcome St Helens to the Arbories.