CHORLEY face a derby trip to Bamber Bridge in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup as they bid for a place in the first round proper for the first time in 24 years.

Garry Flitcroft’s side saw off North West Counties League side Glossop North End on Saturday thanks to James Dean’s second half strike in a 1-0 win at Victory Park.

And the Magpies’ reward is a trip to Evo-Stik League Division One North side Bamber Bridge on Saturday week.

Having battled past Glossop North End, Chorley will certainly not be taking Bamber Bridge lightly. The Brig have lost just once so far this season and are second only to the Class-of-’92-owned Salford City in the table.

They have also signed former Preston and Nottingham Forest midfielder Paul McKenna, who could make his home debut in the clash with the Magpies.

Victory for Chorley will put them into the final qualifying round alongside clubs from the Conference North.

It was a relatively smooth passage into the second qualifying round for the Magpies at the weekend and boss Garry Flitcroft was pleased to get the job done.

“I was never worried about it,” said Flitcroft of the result. “We had chances in the first 15 minutes and if we had put one of them in it would have been a much easier afternoon.

“We were comfortable though and never in doubt of losing the match.

“It is good to get through to the next round and I thought James Dean was outstanding today and deserved his goal.”

The Chorley boss was also pleased to see a number of players returning from injuries ahead of this weekend’s home clash with Harrogate in the league.

Flitcroft added: “Other lads are coming back into fitness and the lads have got to keep their shirts because there are some good players coming back.

“We have been unlucky with suspensions and injuries this season but it is a strong squad.

“You have got to be outstanding to keep your shirt.

“I fancy anybody here. Harrogate won’t fancy coming here.

“We’ve had a good start and we look forward to next Saturday now.”