CARL Macauley insists Witton Albion are not underdogs for an FA Cup clash South Shields tomorrow afternoon, though the manager admits his side was done no favours by the draw.

The FA Vase champions, promoted to the Northern Premier League’s second tier at the end of last season, haven’t lost a match since November.

They have also won every game to date this season.

Asked if it was fair to describe the Mariners as favourites, Macauley said: “No, I don’t think it is.

“They’re strong, for sure, and have plenty of money.

“But that doesn’t guarantee that they’ll win.”

Albion lost at home to Altrincham on Monday, their first reverse of a new season.

However they have a knack for producing their best when the odds are against them, and eliminated three higher-ranked sides – Buxton, Boston and Kettering – from knockout competitions last season.

They also took Chester, then playing three levels higher, to a replay in the FA Trophy.

Macauley said: “We’ve been in this position pretty recently, when we’re not expected to get through, and got great results.

“I believe in these lads, and they’re more than capable of doing the same again this weekend.

“We’re planning for a win, and to reach the next stage.

“We also need to respond after losing to Altrincham, and we will do.

“It’s important to put that defeat in context; we’ve had a great start to the season, and we’ve got ourselves into a great position in the league.

“As far as I’m concerned, that game has been chucked in the bin.”

“We’ll learn.

“Every defeat hurts everybody, and we’re no different.

“The most important thing is we recognise Altrincham’s quality and not get too down about it.”

He conceded that a draw for the FA Cup first qualifying round might have been kinder, but insisted home advantage would help his side.

Before the Robins’ visit earlier this week, Witton had lost only one of their previous 23 league fixtures at Wincham Park.

“We’ve done our homework, and we’re expecting a difficult game,” added Macauley.

“They should be too. I’m excited.”

He expects to have Matty Devine available again after the full-back sat out the past three games with a hamstring complaint.

However Ben Hedley, a midfielder who has impressed so far during a loan spell, has not been granted permission to play by parent club Morecambe.