Brocton looking to make history

Having pulled off a 2-0 upset over Gresley in the preliminary round, they welcome Deeping Rangers to Silkmore Lane.

The Badgers’ only other fixture at this stage of the competition came in the 2013/14 season, losing 2-1 at Halesowen Town.

Boss Sam Norton said: “We are definitely looking to use the home advantage against them.

“We have used it in our favour so far as we have not lost at home yet this season.

“We are not worrying too much about what is in front of us, but more so focusing on ourselves and making sure we get things right.

“I know there is enough quality in the dressing room to compete and perform.”

Brocton have won two, drawn one and lost two in the Midland League Division One so far – and also beat Cadbury Athletic 3-0 in the extra preliminary round of the cup.

Visitors Deeping play in the United Counties League Premier Division – a step above – and have won two, drawn one and lost one. Norton said: “We have made contact with teams that Deeping have been up against recently.

“We know a bit about them but, as I say, our main focus is on what we do on the day. It is a big day for everybody at the club, everybody who is involved, and we are all really looking forward to the game.

“Beating Gresley, who are two divisions above us, 2-0 in the last round set a big marker.

“It gave us performance levels to try to reach again, and hopefully we can put in another top performance.

“We are hoping for a good crowd as well, a few more extra at Silkmore Lane to come down and cheer the lads on.”

Also in the Cup, Tividale host phoenix club AFC Rushden & Diamonds.

It has been a tough couple of years for Tivi supporters, watching their side suffer back-to-back relegations in the league.

Having beaten Highgate United, after a replay, and big-spending Walsall Wood, though, the mood is lifting among the Beeches faithful and this could well be a very entertaining tie.

And the Evo-Stik Southern League East Division side should bring a good number of fans.