WITTON Albion’s task on their FA Cup debut this season is clear, if not simple.

They have not beaten a North West Counties League side in the competition in more than a decade, since a 7-0 win at home to Holker Old Boys in September 2003.

Indeed, their past three meetings with opponents from that level have ended in defeat.

Most recently, Runcorn Town inflicted a humiliating 5-3 reverse in the first qualifying round two years ago.

However home humblings by neighbours Congleton, in 2009, and Winsford cannot yet be consigned to the distant past.

With that in mind, Albion’s supporters could be forgiven for a collective groan when they were paired with either Atherton Collieries or Bacup Borough in Friday’s preliminary round draw.

Colls, third in the North West Counties League Premier Division last term and among the favourites to win the title this time around, have home advantage in that meeting.

The victors will host Albion on Saturday, August 20.

Witton, under Scott Dundas, reached the second qualifying round last season following wins against then league rivals Trafford and Farsley Celtic.

However a tame display during a 3-1 defeat at FC United of Manchester ended their involvement.

They have not played in the first round proper since 1995, when they were members of non-league’s top division.

Meanwhile Carl Macauley’s men were the first team out of the hat a draw for the FA Trophy preliminary round.

They will host Brighouse Town, who they beat home and away in the Northern Premier League’s Division One North last term, on Saturday, October 8.

Should they progress, then former fans’ favourite Danny Andrews could stand in their way of further progress.

His new club, Colwyn Bay, host Hyde United.

The victors of that tie will then host Witton or Brighouse at the next stage.