Spennymoor face a tough opening tie in the FA Trophy when they go to Glossop in the preliminary round.

Glossop lost in the final of the FA Vase last season on their way to promotion from the North West Counties League, and they’ve slowly battled their way to second top of the EvoStik First Division North, the same league as Moors who are four points behind with two games in hand.

Moors manager Jason Ainsley said; “We know what to expect from them – a very tough game because we played there on the first day of the season and drew 1-1. That’s turned out to be a good point considering where they are now in the table and the number of games that they’ve won.

“They are a physical team with good energy and are doing well, so it will be a stiff test but one we will relish.”

First choice keeper Dan Lowson is missing because of injury, so on loan keeper Joe Fryer will deputise. “I thought Joe did well the other night. He didn’t have a lot to do, but made a couple of good saves. I have a very good relationship with Middlesbrough and I’d like to thank them and Paul Jenkins for helping me at such short notice.”

Central defender Joe Tait and midfielder Anthony Peacock are also both injured, while midfielders Scott Kerr and James Risbrough are very doubtful.