JIM Gannon insists his players will not be attempting to right a wrong when they try to reach the FA Cup first round tonight, Friday.

Northwich Victoria have knocked out higher-ranked opponents, in the form of Hyde and Marine, since being charged earlier this month for fielding an ineligible player.

Their reward is to host National League North side Chorley in the fourth qualifying round.

“It’s been a difficult time for everybody at the club,” admitted the Vics boss.

“But we’ve been determined to rise to the challenge, not due to a sense of injustice or because there’s a siege mentality.

“Instead we’ve reset ourselves after a few thunderbolts and gone out to perform.”

A 4-2 success at Marine last Tuesday, during which they established a two-goal lead inside seven minutes, puts his side one win away from a return to the first round.

On their previous appearance, in 2009, they took on League One club Charlton in a tie broadcast live on television.

Gannon said: “The potential rewards from the FA Cup, in terms of finance, confidence-building and playing on that stage are starting to look achievable.

“But we can expect a very tough game against Chorley.

“The players deserve credit for getting as far as they have, which is a testament to their mental and athletic qualities as much as their football ones.

“They’re tired after the massive efforts of the past few weeks, but the feeling of pride that comes from winning games like they have rarely comes without a cost.”

Kick off at Wincham Park tonight, Friday, is at 7.45pm.