PAUL Brayson has said that playing against Northwich Victoria will be an opportunity to reminisce about a part of his career that he remembers fondly.

The 41-year-old will lead a Newcastle Benfield forward-line against one of his former clubs when they meet in the FA Vase fourth round next month.

“A lot of things have changed at Vics and they’ve had hard times after I left,” Brayson told the Chronicle in his native north east.

“I had three good years there, and there will be a lot of the same faces and supporters I’ll recognise.

“They seem to be getting back on their feet too and obviously have a decent side.”

Vics secured their place in the last 32 following a comfortable 3-0 win against Silsden.

READ > Vics 3-0 Silsden: match report

At the same time Brayson and company, conquerors of 1874 Northwich in their previous tie, eliminated another North West Counties League top-flight side in the shape of Runcorn Town.

They will have home advantage again when Steve Wilkes’ side hit the road in January.

Brayson said: “Beating Runcorn the way we did with a late goal was great and it gives us confidence.

“We’ll take that into the game against Northwich although we expect it to be difficult and we know we’ll have to be at our best to keep this run going.

“However most managers and players from the Northern League see the FA Vase as a big deal and it does get more exciting the further you progress.”

Vics, who host Cheadle Town in a Macron Cup third-round tie on Sunday, will travel to Newcastle Benfield on Saturday, January 5, kick-off 3pm.