Highwaymen setting out on the Cup trail

MORPETH Town face their first competitive game of the season when they travel to Goole AFC in the FA Cup extra preliminary round tomorrow.

The newly-promoted Highwaymen could hand debuts to the likes of goalkeeper Dan Lowson, defender Jeff Henderson and midfielder Sam Hodgson.

Former Shildon player Hodgson faces competition for a starting place, Keith Graydon, Ben Sayer and Jordan Fry also all available for selection.

Heaton Stannington have a full squad available as Michael Hall returns for their trip to Division One club Seaham Red Star.

One of the ties of the round sees Hebburn Town entertain Dunston UTS.

Hebburn boss Scott Oliver has injury doubts over Louis Storey, Ben Dibb-Fuller and James Fairley.

Dunston UTS manager Chris Swales is expecting a tough test.

“We could not have a more difficult tie at this stage,” said the two-time FA Vase winner.

“We do have a full squad available for the first time because Aidan Haley has returned from holiday.”

Gavin Caines and Dan Taggart return to the Whitley Bay squad for their trip to Thackley.

The only absentee for Whitley is youngster Kieran Brannen.

Blyth AFC will look to make town history by becoming the first Blyth side to win their first FA Cup tie when they travel to Glasshoughton Welfare.

North Shields’ manager Marc Nash could hand a debut to Middlesbrough Under-23s’ player Kieren Story when they entertain Consett.

Newcastle Benfield entertain FA Vase finalists Stockton Town at Sam Smith’s Park and West Auckland Town head to Nissan Sports Complex to face Washington.

Ashington have been dealt a big injury blow ahead of their home tie against Knaresborough Town.

Colliers’ captain Wayne Buchanan was diagnosed with a double leg break after their midweek defeat against Hebburn.

Whickham look for a first win of the season when they travel to Selby Town and Billingham Synthonia face a trip to the north west to face Barnoldswick Town.

Elsewhere, in-form Bishop Auckland host Pickering Town while Sunderland RCA welcome local rivals Ryhope CW.

Guisborough Town entertain Newton Aycliffe.