FA Cup dates announced

Our local sides have discovered their FA Cup opponents for this weekend.

Following their 2-0 victory at Scarborough Athletic last week, Ashton United have been handed a home tie against fellow NPL Premier side, South Shields.

Meanwhile, Stalybridge Celtic's victory against Bishop Auckland has been rewarded with a home tie against Longridge Town, who compete in the North West Counties Premier Division.

Hyde United, who cruised to a 5-0 win at West Allotment Celtic in the previous round, will entertain National League North outfit AFC Fylde at Ewen Fields, and Mossley, who edged their way to a 2-1 victory over Ramsbottom United in the previous round, will host Tadcaster Albion at Seel Park.

Curzon Ashton enter the competition at this stage and have been handed a home game against near neighbours FC United of Manchester - but the stadium, under current regulations, will be empty as fans are banned from attending games in step one and two of the non-league pyramid. As Reporter Sport brought to you last week, Curzon chairman Wayne Salkeld says if the current ban exists into the new season - which starts next Monday (3rd) - and there is no financial support from the Government, the club will be out of business by Christmas.