THE next obstacle for 1874 Northwich on what they hope will be a path to Wembley could not be bigger.

After progressing to the FA Vase second round following a routine win against Rochdale at the weekend, they were paired with Morpeth in Monday’s draw.

The Northern League leaders will act as hosts for a tie on Saturday, November 21.

“It could not be tougher really,” reflected 1874 boss Ian Street.

“I fancied an away, though perhaps not that far and against weaker opposition!”

He told the Guardian he is already planning a trip to the north east to spy on his side’s foes.

They made a similar journey at the same stage of last season’s edition, returning from Bishop Auckland as victors despite playing the second period a man down following Adam Bayley’s dismissal.

“We’ve proven already we can cope with a long road trip and still perform when we arrive,” added Street.

“We’re looking forward to it, and we’ll make sure we’re as prepared as we can be.”

Morpeth let slip a four-goal lead at West Didsbury, league rivals of 1874 and visitors to Barton Stadium tonight, Tuesday, in their first-round encounter on Saturday.

However an injury time goal spared their blushes.

1874’s passage to the next stage was a smoother one, with Matthew Beadle, Mike Brandon, Matthew Ward and newcomer Daniel Cawley on target in a 4-2 win at lower-ranked opponents.

It marks a fifth win from six matches since a 4-0 drubbing at Ashton Athletic.