TERRY Murphy is plotting to bring down the champions.

The Middlewich manager takes his team to Styal this weekend for their first title test of the campaign.

“It’s a big one, no doubt about it,” he said.

“I think they’ve found it tough so far this season because other sides are desperate to beat them, I just hope we can do the same.

“We know what it’s like to be shot at every week but now they are the defending champion it’s nice not to have that pressure every week.”

Styal’s season has started slowly, bringing just two wins in their first five matches, and they crashed out of the JB Parker Challenge Cup against lowly Linotype on Saturday.

Town progressed at the expense of bitter rivals Barnton.

“I think one or two of their players haven’t been able to handle it,” Murphy said of Styal’s stuttering start.

“But I still expect them to bounce back and we’ll be in for a tough battle at their place.”

Craig Stevens is still convalescing after an operation on his ankle, while his stand-in Ryan Broadhead is banned.

Alex Lowe continues to deputise alongside Gary Bryning in midfield.

Mike Brandon returns to the attack after missing the weekend win at Town Field, where Dave Tasker returned to the team with two goals in the 3-1 success.

“I’ve given him a second chance,” said Murphy on Tasker.

“There were a few things we disagreed on and at one time I told him his time was up here but he’s vowed to get his head down and work hard.

“If he sticks to his word I’ll be happy.”

Kick off at Styal is 3pm.