STEVE Lloyd has urged his players to make the most of an opportunity to test themselves against Stockport County tonight.

Barnton take on the Hatters in a Cheshire FA Senior Cup tie at Edgeley Park, where the teams will meet for the first time.

“It’s a golden occasion for us,” said the Villagers’ boss.

“The fact that we’re playing against Stockport in a competitive fixture is testament to the many people who have put blood, sweat and tears into the club.

“We’re just fortunate to be the ones who can enjoy the experience, but it’s important to acknowledge the tireless work undertaken by those before we arrived.”

Barnton make the trip on the back of eight successive defeats in all competitions.

They have conceded 34 goals in that sequence too, and sit bottom of the North West Counties League’s Premier Division.

Their hosts are among the contenders to finish in the National League North promotion play-offs three levels above, and played out a 2-2 draw with Salford City on Saturday in front of more than 5,000 people.

Lloyd said: “Our incentive is to create a memory that the players can look back on.

“We don’t want to be looking back on this game with any regrets and wishing that we could have done more.

“Of course we’ll have the utmost respect for them, but when the whistle blows I at least want to see us play with a desire that brings out our best performance.”

Kick-off is at 7.45pm.

Admission is £5 for adults, while concessions and under 17s pay £3 to watch the action.