COLNE chief Steve Cunningham is using tomorrow's opponents Hyde United as inspiration for his own side as he targets an FA Cup run.

The Reds take on Hyde, who play one level above Colne after winning promotion last season, in a first round qualifier at Holt House.

And Cunningham, who admits his side's cup pedigree in recent seasons has been 'rubbish' wants to follow the example set by Darren Kelly's men last season when they reached the first round proper and played then League One side MK Dons live on television.

"Recently we have been in the cups, it would be great for everyone if we could have a cup run," said Cunningham.

"Hyde last year were in our league and they reached round one so they have shown it can be done and there is no reason whey we can't do the same thing.

"We had two good games against them last season and there is a good relationship between the two clubs and sets of fans.

"It is a great occasion for us and we want to get a place in the next round."

The importance of the FA Cup has been further emphasised this season by an increase in prize-money meaning Colne will net £6,000 should they earn victory tomorrow, as well as a place in Monday's draw when National League North and South sides enter the competition.

"My chairman has made me aware of that!" said Cunningham on the potential to swell club coffers.

"He wants the cheque and I just want the win."

Colne aren't the only side in cup action with Clitheroe at home to Mossley.

The Blues overcame Sunderland RCA 3-2 thanks to a late winner in Tuesday's replay in the north east and will also be bidding for a place in the hat for the second qualifying round.

Both sides are four wins away from the first round proper.

Ramsbottom United bowed out of the cup in midweek after a penalty shoot-out defeat to Kidsgrove Athletic but despite the defeat manager Mark Fell took the positives from the performance.

“I’m proud of the lads who took the penalties. To be honest I’m proud of the way we played, we continued to do the right things," he said.

"We didn’t have the cutting edge but some nights that happens.

"We have a free weekend, which we didn’t plan for but we’ll work for Kendal next week. If we create this many chances, we’ve got a great chance to win that game.

"Points wise we’re in a good position and squad wise I think we’re in a much better position than we were last season.

"The message from me to the players is we go again and stick together as a team. That’s all we can do."

In the Hallmark Security League Premier Division, Padiham entertain West Didsbury & Chorlton while in the First Division Cup, AFC Darwen host Carlisle City and Nelson take on St Martins. Bacup Borough are at home to Chadderton in the First Division North.

Barnoldswick Town are without a game.

Meanwhile, table-topping Chorley will bid to maintain their unbeaten start to the season when they travel to Ashton United.

The Magpies dropped points for the first time this campaign when coming from two down to draw 2-2 with Brackley last weekend and have a four point lead at the top after eight games.

Ashton are down in seventeenth having won just once in the league so far this term.