Salford City are the visitors to Giant Axe this weekend in the Preliminary Round clash with the winners guaranteed a £1,500 pay day.

And after a disappointing season in the cups last season, City manager Barrie Stimpson was keen to see a difference this time around against a side who are bottom of UniBond Division One North.

He said: "It is absolutely fantastic the money that they now make available but it puts more pressure on the game.

"Salford are in the same league as us and I am sure they will be fighting tooth and nail just like we will on Saturday.

"Given the choice between promotion and a good cup run, I would take promotion, but I am very aware that the cup runs bring in revenue that can help with a promotion campaign.

"I am confident we will field a strong side and should we play near our potential, I would like to think we can get the result that was want."

Lancaster have made a solid start to the season, lying sixth, just outside the play-offs, after four games following the 1-1 draw at Curzon Ashton on Monday.

Guy Heffernan misses the Cup game as he is now suspended for three games after his red card at Harrogate Railway.

Lee Dodgson and Scott Greenwood missed the trip to Curzon with minor injuries but are expected to be fit.

Paul Fildes and Dominic Ward have also had ankle knocks but are also likely to feature.

Stimpson and his management team are still looking at players with new 'director of football' Mick Hoyle charged with following up players.
Stimpson said the new arrangements were working well.

"I am delighted with the balance we have in the management team. As a team we will identify targets and Mick will be pursuing those."

One area of concern has been at centre-half where Stimpson has lacked cover with Steve Cudworth and Iain Swan both out injured.

But the form of skipper Michael Stringfellow since moving into the back four has been a real boost, said Stimpson.

"Although we are looking to add another centre-half, the urgency is not as great given how well Michael Stringfellow has played in that position.

"He has done a great job in there and has been immense for us," he added.