AFC Darwen make the long journey to Eccleshall tomorrow (3pm) aiming to stretch their unbeaten start to the North West Counties League First Division season to three matches.

The Salmoners followed up their victory over Irlam on the opening day of the campaign by fighting back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Atherton LR in midweek.

Former Blackburn Rovers striker Kevin Gallacher, who is Darwen’s director of football, said: “I was pleased with the second half performance, which is more like we can play, but the winner on the night was the pitch, as it spoiled the way everyone wanted to play.”

Bacup and Rossendale Borough take their search for a first win of the Premier Division season to unbeaten Runcorn Town tomorrow (3pm).

Bacup boss Brent Peters, speaking after his side’s midweek derby loss to Colne, believes it will not be long before they get their campaign truly up and running.

Peters said: “All in all over the 90 minutes there was very little separating the two sides, we were disappointed to lose but we took lots of positives from the game and it is only a matter of time until we get on track.”

Colne aim to make it back to back victories with three points at home to Bootle tomorrow (3pm).

Nelson, in contrast, will look to return to winning ways at AFC Liverpool (3pm).

Peter Wright and Rob Grimes face late fitness tests for Mark Fell’s promoted outfit.

Barnoldswick Town, like Bacup, are pointless after two matches.

They aim to break their duck at 1874 Northwich tomorrow (3pm).

Clitheroe host Ramsbottom United tomorrow in a friendly in preparation for the new Evo-Stik League season.

Padiham entertain a Blackburn Rovers XI. The league campaign starts next weekend.