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The Bulls return to Football League action against a side they haven't faced in league competition for 15 years.
The Bulls have a slight historic edge over the Hatters with 12 wins to 10, but Stockport's home advantage has given them a 6 wins to 4 edge. Last season, the Bulls folded to Stockport with little more than a whimper in a 2-0 reverse in the FA Cup in December - the only cup meeting between the sides.
Stockport's first season in the basement of the Football League since that last league meeting saw them avoid another relegation by just three points. Former Bull Mark Robinson was described by many as the only bright point of an otherwise depressing season for Hatters fans.
This season, their side is still lacking a killer touch. Two permanent signings this week, a reserve goalkeeper and midfielder, have been joined by rookie Carlisle striker Glenn Murray - a perennial bench warmer at Brunton Park. Stockport have been crying out for goals in recent times, averaging little more than a goal a game over the last two years.
The Bulls goals were a little stuttery last season. None of the four strikers that started the season started much more than half the league matches as fitness issues largely dictated the front pairing over the course of the season. Stuart Fleetwood showed his sharpness taking two good goals against Cheltenham last week and is expected by most to partner Tim Sills up front, with the highly rated Andy Williams likely to start wide.
Most Bulls fans still think the squad is one special midfielder short, and the age and experience of the squad is also a cause for concern amongst some - most have little more than a season of regular football at this level or higher behind them.
Odds (Bet365): Stockport 5/4, Draw 9/4, Bulls 9/5.
