John Coleman's side have become the league's surprise package with a fine win at Shrewsbury on Saturday making it six wins in seven games, taking them to the edge of the play-off spots.

That run includes a win at Christie Park on Boxing Day which saw Stanley bring the Shrimps' impressive winning run to an end and maintain their stranglehold over Morecambe in recent times.
The Shrimps have yet to beat Stanley since joining the Football League and it is a run McIlroy is keen to end.

He said: "I don't think we have beaten Accrington while I have been in charge and I want to put that record to bed.

"They have had a great season and John Coleman has built a team that is playing good football and has an excellent spirit.

"We know all about them and we know we need to be at our best on Saturday to combat them."

McIlroy said the game may be too early for former Stanley striker Paul Mullin to return to the starting line-up after his recent knee injury.

Mullin was a substitute in Saturday's defeat but is short of match practice. Said McIlroy: "I'm sure Paul will be itching to play but it may be just a week too early for him because he's short of games and match fitness."