DAVID HODGSON will pit his wits against Barnsley in the first round of the FA Cup next month.

Saturday's draw paired Darlington with the League One side, although Hodgson was disappointed not to begin the competition with a home tie, which would have created extra revenue for the club.

Hodgson believes a game at the Darlington Football Stadium would have taken some financial responsibility away from chairman Stewart Davies, who has kept the club on a sound footing since coming out of administration over a year ago.

"It would have been nice to have had Barnsley at home for the chairman," said Hodgson. "Under the financial circumstances it would have brought in good money for the club.

"I'm sure there will be a good gate down there and I'm sure we will get our rewards from that."

On the pitch, an away tie at Oakwell is one Hodgson admits will be difficult, but one he is also relishing.

Barnsley were held to a 1-1 draw at Southend on Saturday, leaving Andy Ritchie's men 14th in League One.

However, one familiar face who won't be facing his former club is Barnsley striker Barry Conlon, who recently joined Rotherham United on a three-month loan.

He netted a late leveller for his side on Saturday against Swansea.

Barnsley knocked Quakers out of the Carling Cup at the first round stage last season.

"I have no doubt that Barnsley will be a very difficult obstacle," admitted Hodgson.

"But, it's a game I'm already looking forward to because it gives us an opportunity to test ourselves against a side who play at a higher level."

The tie will be played on Saturday, November 5.

Read more about the Quakers here.