Stafford on the box?

Stafford manager Steve Bull is dreaming of a televised draw when the third round of the Setanta Shield is drawn today.

Rangers produced one of the shocks of the second round with a 3-1 win over Blue Square Premier opposition in Northwich Victoria at Marston Road on Tuesday night.

That has got the club hoping for a big draw when the big guns enter in round three, with the likes of Oxford and Torquay still to enter the mix.

Bully hopes their tie is chosen by the powers-that-be at Setanta, bringing revenue and coverage to the Marston Road club.

He said: "It was a brilliant night against Northwich and we eagerly await the draw for the next round. It could be on TV. What a great boost that would be for the club, not to mention the money it would bring in.

"Whoever we get in the next round, rest assured we will be playing to win and get through. We want to go far in the Setanta Shield. After the Coalville cock-up in the FA Cup, we need to do well in his competition."

The Stafford boss will also run the rule over trial striker Mark Gardner - older brother of Villa midfielder Craig - during tonight's training session.

With a need for strikers, he could be much needed, and as such has been invited to train with the first team squad, after scoring for the reserves last week.

Bully has yet to speak to the player, but will do tonight.

He said: "I plan to have an in-depth chat with Mark, which I haven't done as yet. It will be a good chance to get to know the man and have a closer look at him.

"I would also like to see what his feelings are about joining us. The reports I have had back on him are good, so make no mistake if he is right for us I will take him on board."