IT'S not just cup glory that will be occupying the minds of Bury's players tonight when they take on Carlisle United in the LDV Vans Trophy northern semi-final.
Their prospects of promotion would be greatly enhanced given the financial boost they'd receive should they progress to the northern final, or even better, the national final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium in April.
And make no mistake, Andy Preece's men know just how important victory at Brunton Park tonight will be to the club as they aim to bounce back into Division Two at the first attempt.
They currently lie in the third promotion place and should they go further in the competition a Sky TV appearance and the lucrative windfall that goes with it would make a huge difference to their chances of staying in the frame.
Nevertheless, boss Andy Preece is mindful that his team don't take to the field tonight with the weight of the world on their shoulders.
"It's a big added pressure for us but I will tell the lads to put it to the back of their mind and just concentrate on winning the football match," he said.
"Obviously success in this competition will help us on the league front and we want to go all the way.
"We've done well in it so far and the prospect of appearing in a televised match is a massive incentive."
The Bury boss has a number of troublesome injury worries ahead of tonight's clash although the squad is boosted by the addition of Chris Billy after a one match ban.
Central defender Michael Nelson is doubtful after tweaking his knee in Saturday's 0-0 draw against Boston while striker Ian Lawson is also struggling with a groin strain.
Lenny Johnrose won't feature as his month-to-month contract will shortly come to an end and Nicky Hill is not quite ready for 90 minutes action after recovering from a hamstring problem while on loan at Conference side Leigh RMI.
Meanwhile, Matt Barrass is waiting to see a specialist and is expected to know how long he can expect to be out early next week.
"We have been very lucky with injuries so far this season but all of a sudden we have picked up a crop of them," he added.
"To make matters worse, Simon Whaley now looks like he might have seriously damaged his knee ligaments in a closed-doors match against Bolton yesterday.
"We'll have to wait to see what a scan shows up and if there is cruciate damage that would be a real blow."
A repeat of the 2-1 victory the Shakers earned at Brunton Park in the league in November would be just the ticket for Preece.
But while the Cumbrians are still struggling at the wrong end of the Third Division table he doesn't expect an easy ride.
Irish multi-millionaire John Courtenay is continuing to bankroll manager Roddie Collins and the former Bohemians boss has been busy in the transfer market in recent weeks.
"Carlisle have brought a few new players over the last few months," added Preece.
"They spent £40,000 on Adam Rundle from Darlington and have signed former Port Vale winger Jon McCarthy.
"A lot of teams near the bottom of the table are spending money as they are fighting for their lives.
"Boston proved on Saturday that they wouldn't lie down and Carlisle will be no different."
Kick-off tonight is 7.45pm.
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