RMI will have to go the hard way about making the First Round Proper of the FA Cup after being paired with Accrington Stanley for the second time in as many seasons writes Martyn Hindley

Leigh were beaten by their on-form neighbours from the Nationwide Conference last month. But their next trip to the Interlink Express Stadium will have the added carrot of £10,000 prize money dangled above it.

"It's going to be tough but if we can just get a bit of luck, then you never know", said Chairman Bill Taylor.

"On a financial footing it would be massive for us if we made the First round. It's no secret that we're in a worse state than last season money-wise and a win in the cup could change everything."

It's a tough way for Phil Starbuck to celebrate his first anniversary as Leigh boss - he took charge for the first time in the 2-0 cup reverse last year.

And if that isn't motivation enough, Accrington then went on to a televised victory and a second round giant-killing over Bournemouth.

The 4th Qualifying round tie is on Saturday week but first RMI have the task of travelling to Canvey Island in the league.

They'll hand out another debut in Essex as well, after striker Steve Burton put pen to paper on a month-long loan deal from Scarborough.

"I'm delighted to have him on board and he'll certainly make a difference to the team", said manager Starbuck.