Premier Division preview: Stern test for managerless Matlock, struggling duo collide

Five of tonight’s proposed league fixtures have been postponed due to several clubs being involved in Emirates FA Cup first qualifying round replays.

Current league leaders Stafford Rangers host Matlock Town, who recently parted company with manager Paul Phillips.

With Ashton United, the only side level on 13 points at the top, in cup action this evening, Matt Hill’s side will go outright top of the table with victory.

Elsewhere, South Shields will look to record their fourth successive win when they host Guiseley.

Ahead of the match, Mariners boss Kevin Phillips has challenged his players to take their game to the next level after an unbeaten start to the new season.

“We’ve won our last three games and all of them have been won in different ways, with the lads forced to scrap and fight alongside the good football they’ve produced,” he said.

“They have demonstrated great character, spirit and resilience, and it was the sign of a good team to win on Saturday when we weren’t playing at our best."

Further down the division, Marine visit Bamber Bridge, while Hyde United will do battle against local rivals FC United of Manchester at Ewen Fields.

And in the night’s other matches, Nantwich Town will begin life without Dave Cooke as they face Belper Town, while struggling duo Liversedge and Atherton Collieries face off at Clayborn.

Fixtures - Tuesday 6 September

Bamber Bridge vs Marine
Hyde United vs FC United of Manchester
Liversedge vs Atherton Collieries
Matlock Town vs Stafford Rangers
Nantwich Town vs Belper Town
South Shields vs Guiseley