Before Saturday's derby duel, there was a head-to-head clash between two of the journalists who will be reporting on the big game.

In the blue corner was the Chester Chronicle's Dave Powell, while facing him in the red corner was Rob Griffiths, from our sister title the Daily Post.

The pair spent Thursday lunchtime answering a string of questions, sent to us by fans of Chester FC and Wrexham, in a live webchat.

Who is the best boss, Burr or Mills? Has derby lost its magic in recent years? And who would win in a fight between Dave and Rob?

No stone was left unturned. Here's what was said.

Who is the better boss? Burr or Mills?

Dave Powell (DP): Haha! A good one to kick things off. Gary Mills did well at Gateshead during his time there but had the benefit of healthy financial backing. He also has a track record of promotion from the Conference with York. But Burr has been one of the most coveted managers in non-league football for some years now. His ability to fashion a squad in his image on little resource sets him apart. Burr for me.

Rob Griffiths (RG): Nice easy one to start off with... I have to say Mills because I'd like to get an interview out of him again. But honestly I have a lot of respect for what Steve Burr is doing at Chester. He has made them into a side that looks tough to beat, and is highly rated by so many in the Conference.

Is the new signing from Oxford United (James Roberts) likely to start on Saturday?

DP: Roberts' deal was confirmed today and I would expect him to be thrown straight in at the deep end. He has Football League experience so should be able to handle the occasion. Either Hobson or Hannah will likely make way and my money would be on Hobson.

What's your favourite derby memory?

RG: I think I know what Dave's will be, but mine was the FA Cup victory at the Deva, Karl Connolly scoring both goals in the win.

DP: I haven't got to look too far back. September 22 (my birthday) last year. Chester 2 Wrexham 1. Ben Heneghan, 94 minutes. Bosh!

How important is it to have local lads in your side for the derby, especially with it being cross-border?

DP: I think it helps to have players in the squad who appreciate just what is at stake, but I don't necessarily think that they have to be born and bred Cestrians. As long as the players on the pitch play for the shirt and give their all for the fans in the stand I don't think it matters if they're from Saughall or Swaziland.

RG: I don't think it matters too much to be honest. Robbie Evans is the only local lad likely to start on Saturday, but the rest of the squad either live in and around the area, and will know exactly what it means to the fans. I spoke with Blaine Hudson after the game 12 months ago and you could see how devastated he was. I think the players have bought into the idea of representing the club, the area and the fans.

Do you think the game being a bubble match has contributed to our low ticket sales?

DP: I think it has played some part, yes. Prior to the bubble matches being introduced it would be unthinkable to have a sub-4,000 crowd for this game. Hopefully normal service can be resumed with this fixture in the coming seasons.

RG: Yes, definitely, I know a number of fans who are not going to the game because of the bubble match. The authorities will say it is a 'necessary evil', and point to the fact there have been very few incidents since the bubble was introduced, but of course it is a factor for there being such a low turn out for the first derby of the season.

Which club do you think would be most satisfied with a draw?

DP: While the Blues are going for the three points, a draw against a far-stronger Wrexham side than the one faced last season wouldn't be a disaster. In 2013 we went into the derby game at the Racecourse on the back of five defeats, so form goes out of the window. I think we'll see a far more positive Chester side this weekend, like the one that beat Eastleigh

RG: Looking at the table you'd have to say Chester would be happier with a draw, but I think back 12 months and know exactly how good a draw at the Deva would be for Wrexham. Its a derby and form goes out the window, but Wrexham will be making the short journey with nothing other than three points on their minds.

Are there any players from the other team you'd want in your side?

DP: Dominic Vose looks a handy player but we are in need of a goalscorer at the moment and there isn't anyone who really fits the bill across the border. With regards to Vose, though, I think he would make the starting XI in most National League sides.

RG: Luke George, he's a player I rate quite highly. He seems to be key for Chester, breaking up play and starting Chester in the other direction .

Dragons danger man Dominic Vose
Dragons danger man Dominic Vose

Is Luke George going to be playing?

DP: I'm afraid it looks like George will be missing for Saturday, according to Steve Burr. He hasn't recovered fully from pulling a thigh muscle against Forest Green at the start of September. He has been a huge miss for the Blues and his absence weakens the midfield.

Do you think the 'bubble a on Saturday' is the best we can expect? But better than noon on a Sunday?

DP: The fact that both these teams are now in non-league football plays some part but the bubble has had a seriously negative impact on people even wanting to come to the game. I can't see the authorities changing their stance on this any time soon. As I said before, there should be no way that this isn't a sell-out crowd.

RG: I think it is massively disappointing that what the derby will be played in front of a half empty stadium. Like I said earlier the authorities will say they have to implement these measures because of the possibility of crowd trouble. It is the idea of the minority ruining it for everyone else. I don't think it would matter what time or on what day the match was scheduled, it would still be a bubble match now.

If Chester lose on Saturday (hopefully not!), do you think it'll be the end of Steve Burr's time at the club?

DP: No. The Blues are going through a sticky patch but I certainly think Burr is the right man for the job. We are creating chances but not converting them. As soon as that happens we should be able to go on a decent run. As I said in an earlier post, Burr is one of the most coveted managers in non-league football for a reason.

And finally... are Wrexham going to win on Saturday and which of yous lads would win in a fight?

DP: Chester to beat Wrexham and it's all about the speed in boxing. Grif would win if it was a WWE bout, for sure. They'll be no need for such shenanigans, though, it's all love.

RG: I'd like to think Wrexham will win, but it is a derby, so anything can happen. With regards a fight I will be diplomatic and say we are certainly not in the same weight division...

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