Striker Lee Ellison is hoping his partnership with Garry Barnes can carry Shildon to more glory on Sunday.

Between them, the two former Darlington players have scored 44 goals this season, with each scoring against Guisborough in the league on Monday night. Ellison has scored four times in the Cup run, and Barnes eight.

"Garry and I seem to hit it off together," he said. "I'm suited to the role I play in the team, and Garry plays well off me.

"Garry is flying at the moment, he's in one of those spells in which a striker can't seem to do any wrong.

"But we know that we're in for a tough game on Sunday. County are massive favourites, and they had a good result last Saturday against Hartlepool.

"I'm sure though that we'll enjoy the day out. Meadow Lane is one of the best grounds in the lower divisions, and it has a good playing surface which will suit us.

"In terms of history and the tradition of the game, then we couldn't have had a better draw. There were far worse draws."

Ellison, who has played in the first round before with both Darlington and Barrow, reckons Shildon's chances will depend on keeping County out in the opening stages of the game. He said: "We must start the game strongly. The longer we don't concede, then the more pressure they'll be under."

The Cup run is one of the highlights of his non league career, which has also seen him play for Bishop Auckland. He said: "I've been part of teams which have won first round ties, but this occasion is certainly the most exciting because of the style with which we've won games."