The FA Cup third-round pairing of Darlington and Farnborough may have done little to whet the appetite of neutral football fans but caretaker boss Mick Tait believes this afternoon's tie could be a blessing in disguise for Quakers.

Tait would prefer to have had the chance to pits his wits against one of the Premiership's big guns after seeing off Stevenage in the last round, saying: "I think both sides were looking for a better draw."

But he added: "With regards to progress in the Cup it was a great draw.

"We might not have the game we wanted this time around but we have another opportunity to get that chance and hopefully the lads will be up for it."

After three successive draws Quakers will be looking to return to winning ways.

Tait admitted the last thing he needs is an extra rearranged game to contend with after the New Year's Day postponement against Rochdale.

"We'll be looking to finish this game off at the first time of asking," said Tait

"The last thing we need at the moment is another game to contend with and another draw!

"If we perform like we know we can then I'm sure we can go on and win the match comfortably.

"All we've got to do is make sure everybody's attitude is right."

It is 18 years since Quakers last made it into the fourth round, where they eventually succumbed to non-league opposition, losing 3-0 at Telford in a replay.

And Tait has called on his players to be on their guard against a Farnborough side more than capable of causing an upset.

In 1992 Boro took West Ham to a third-round replay before eventually bowing out 1-0.

"We have to make sure we don't go into the game over-confident," said Tait.

Quakers have already netted £30,000 for reaching this stage and they stand to make an extra £50,000 if they make further progress today.

Tait is without leading scorer Barry Conlon who begins a three-match ban following his sending off against Macclesfield.

"It's a huge blow not having Baz but it's just something we have to accept," said Tait.

Striker Ian Clark could earn a recall, although Danny Mellanby has already staked his claim for a starting place with four goals in two outings for the reserves last month and could get the nod.

Defender Matt Clarke is also on stand-by for a striking role.

"There's Danny Mellanby and Ian Clark who are more than capable of doing a job while Matt Clarke has played there in the past so I have the options," said Tait.

Farnborough boss Graham Westley has a fully-fit squad to choose from with defender Michael Warner return after serving a one-match ban.

Referee Graham Salisbury may be forced to carry out his second pitch inspection in as many days this morning.

The Preston official yesterday gave the green light to the Feethams pitch but will today reassess the playing surface after overnight frost was forecast.

Read more about the Quakers here.