AFC Telford United today began preparations for a marathon FA Cup journey to Blyth Spartans on Saturday.

The Bucks were left facing a FA Cup final qualifying round tie with their Blue Square North rivals after Blyth edged past Salford City in a replay last night.

Blyth required extra time to make home advantage count before eventually edging past their lower-graded opponents 2-1.

Assistant manager Larry Chambers admitted a tough tie awaits, but insists his side are fully capable of prolonging their Cup adventure.

“I saw the first game last week and I thought, as well as Salford played, they had probably missed their chance that night,” said Chambers.

“The reports we had last night were that Salford pushed them all the way and may have been a bit unfortunate.

“But it’s Blyth and I think we were expecting and gearing up for that so there are no real surprises.

“It’s a long journey and their fans will be intimidating – but we have been there before and know what to expect.

“It will be tough but we are playing against a team from our league and if we apply ourselves and play to our potential, we are more than capable of winning.”

The two teams met on the opening day of the season and played out a 1-1 draw at the New Bucks Head.

And the Bucks will be desperate for a lift after mis-firing during the opening third of the campaign.

“When things aren’t going as well as you would like, it’s easy for managers to say that a Cup result can turn it around,” added Chambers.

“That can be the case but we have to make it happen.

“We have got a chance to reach the first round proper for the second successive year and bring some more exposure and money”

Carl Rodgers and Phil Trainer have toe and hip concerns respectively but are expected to be fit for the weekend.

By James Garrison