PREVIEW | Chester vs Woking

    Forget dancing in September, as the Blues now delve into another month of action – starting with the visit of surprise package Woking at the Swansway Chester Stadium.

    Postponement at Eastleigh on Saturday means Marcus Bignot takes charge of his second Blues game in front of yet another home crowd.

    The newly appointed boss spoke of the importance of the home faithful after last week’s 2-0 victory over Maidenhead – and hailed them as “man of the match” following the encounter.

    As for Woking, Garry Hill was given his marching orders following the Cards’ final game of the 2016/17 season.

    Woking have begun the season in fine form – and the introduction of a fresh face on the touch line in Anthony Limbrick has proved a shrewd move.

    Currently at the lofty heights of seventh, and within the National League play-offs, Limbrick’s side are unbeaten in their last four games – recovering from some poor form in August.

    Chester begin the game still within the National League drop zone, with a game in hand after Saturday’s postponement.

    Now, October has started, let’s hope there’s never a cloudy day.

    HISTORY BOOKS

    The Cards have been difficult to break down away from home for the Blues, since their return to non-league’s top flight.

    Chester haven’t beaten their Surrey counterparts since their inaugural season in the National League – winning 1-0 at Kingfield back in 2014.

    It seems to often be a high scoring affair, however, with 25 goals scored in the previous seven meetings.

    ONE TO WATCH

    Joe Ward – Midfielder

    Ward began his career at Chelmsford City, before securing a move to Championship promotion winners Brighton and Hove Albion in the summer of 2015.

    On his arrival to Kingfield this summer, the 22-year old pacy winger already had National League experience under his belt.

    A short spell on loan at Lincoln City last season included an appearance at the Emirates Stadium versus Arsenal, and a pivotal role in the Imps’ FA Cup campaign.

    Netting five times this season, it’s fair to say Ward has impressed Cards fans throughout their impressive start. A persistent, tricky winger, Ward has caused problems for many a National League club’s defence – along with his goal scoring ability.

    Here’s some Chester vs Woking stats ahead of tonight’s game – courtesy of our Club Historian, Chas Sumner:

    The reformed Blues have lost all four previous home games against Woking

    In four meetings during the first spell in the Conference between 2000 and 2004 Chester City won one, drew two and lost the other one

    Chester’s only victory came in October 2003 when they won 2-1 with goals from Ben Davies and Michael Twiss

    In November 2015 Ross Hannah scored an injury time consolation in a 2-1 defeat.

    Woking won last season’s fixture 3-2. Liam Davies scored his first Chester goal with Elliott Durrell adding the other.

    Match Details

    Kick off at the Swansway Chester Stadium tonight is 7.45.

    Can’t make the game? Follow us on Twitter @ChesterFC for full match updates OR listen to our live and FREE commentary on our dedicated Mixlr page.

    Come on you Blues!