HIGH-flying Atherton Collieries go in search of an FA Cup upset tomorrow when they host Radcliffe Borough in the preliminary round of the famous old competition at Alder Street.

Colls, from the North West Counties First Division, entertain Evo-Stik Division One North opponents who have lost all four games this campaign, scoring one goal.

In contrast, their bank holiday Monday win against Ashton Town took them briefly to the top of the division – they are now second – and they also boast the division’s top scorer in Gareth Peet with seven goals so far this season It promises to be a close encounter on form and secretary Emil Anderson is relishing the derby clash which comes four years on from Boro’s 1-0 triumph against Colls at the same stage.

Anderson said: “It is four years to the weekend since Boro beat us 1-0 in what was manager Steve Pilling’s first game.

“I know they have not won a game and are bottom and we are at the top end of our league but they are still favourites for me. They are two divisions above us.

“But we will give it a real go. We have firepower coming back in after Monday’s win with Gareth back.

“It’s an adventure for us and hopefully it can carry on.”

Boro boss Kevin Glendon hopes a break from league action will give his new young side, who sit rock bottom of the division, a chance to boost confidence.

But he is fully aware their lower-league hosts will be looking to add to their woes and inflict a cup upset.

Glendon said: “I think the start we have had puts more pressure on us on Saturday because Colls may think we are ripe for an upset and there for the taking.

“We just need some confidence and a bit of luck to go our way. It has been hard but we knew with a young side, and so many changes this summer, it would be difficult.

“With young players, confidence can drop quickly. They just need to keep their belief.”

Ramsbottom United, who have also lost their first four league games and sit one place above Boro on goal difference, are also in FA Cup action tomorrow.

They hosts AFC Liverpool at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium, kick off 3pm.