IT'S the biggest day of the season so far for our two major teams in the FA Cup on Saturday.

And both managers reckon that with large home crowds behind their sides they could be leading their men on to the first round of the cup proper come 4.45pm Saturday.

High-flying Lancaster City face long-standing derby rivals Bamber Bridge of Preston. Conference club Morecambe take on midtable Unibond side Bishop Auckland.

Both home sides are favourites and even Bamber Bridge manager Tony Greenwood was apprehensive ahead of Saturday's match.

He has eight first teamers out of his side and knows it will be hard here on Saturday. But he added: "We have a hell of a good vocal support and we'll be taking a few up to Lancaster on Saturday. Your club's confidence must be high but this is a one off cup game. We'll be giving it all we've got." Lancaster manager Tony Hesketh remained cautious ahead of the big derby match. He commented: "They will be dreaming of big tie in the proper first round just the same as us. This is a derby game and the players know each other very well so there'll be no surprises. It'll be one of those games where the odd incident and the odd refereeing decision could decide.

"One thing we need is our fans to come and get behind us. Bamber have got a good following and we really want our fans to come along and sing for the team."

Morecambe manger Jim Harvey commented: "Yes, I would urge our fans to get behind the side."

In the FA Trophy Morecambe face Hucknall Town at Christie Park and Lancaster City are at home to Corby Town. The matches will be played on November 27. City's home league match against Barrow has been rearranged for January 3.

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