Barnton manager Steve Lloyd says first league game takes priority over FA Cup

The Villagers head to Parkgate, of the Northern Counties East League’s Premier Division, for an extra preliminary round encounter.

However their manager told the Guardian that peaking in seven days’ time is his top priority.

“That’s the one that really counts,” he said.

“Of course we’d love to get through if we can, not least for the financial reward that brings, but for me it’s a final chance to make sure we’re absolutely ready to beat Charnock Richard next weekend.”

Barnton were unlucky to bow out at the same stage of last year’s edition following a 2-1 defeat at neighbours 1874 Northwich.

Their Rotherham-based opponents represent a different challenge altogether.

Lloyd said: “We don’t know much about them, nor will they about us.

“We’ve done a bit of homework, but it’s difficult to gauge what we’ll be up against because they’ve brought in new players like we have.

“I think it’s more important to make sure that we’re right on the day; if we’re beaten, but play at our best, then I’ll have no complaints.”

He is likely to hand a debut to defender Adam McKillop, while fellow new-recruits Jack Irlam and Niall Ford are in contention to feature from the first minute in south Yorkshire too.

Versatile back-marker Adam Bayley is unavailable though because of work commitments.

Lloyd has been boosted by the return from a knee injury of winger Josh Crofts, but long-term absentees Jonny Jones, Ryan Malone and Pete Aidley are unlikely to feature until next month.

“The squad is better now than the one that ended last season,” added Lloyd.

“We’re better balanced, and have more depth.

“That was something I was conscious of even though we finished the campaign strongly, and stayed up with plenty to spare.

“I felt we were still vulnerable in defence, and conceded too many goals.”

Kick off on Saturday is 3pm.

If the scores end level, then a replay follows at Townfield on Wednesday night.