PICKERING Town were dealt a dream draw in the fourth round of the FA Carlsberg Vase, being handed a home tie against Essex boys Tiptree United.

That was the view of Pikes boss Jimmy Reid, who said he was delighted with the outcome.

"I would have picked that tie if given the chance," he said.

"It's a home game and they're going to be coming five and a half hours to play up here and that won't be the best preparation for them."

Tiptree, who play in the Jewson Eastern Counties League, have won seven, drawn seven and lost seven of their 21 games so far this season.

"We've got contacts down there and we might have someone going to watch them tonight," added Reid.

Pickering's Northern Counties East League premier division fixture against Goole tonight has been called off because Goole are in West Riding Cup action at Tadcaster Albion.

Taddy, of NCEL division one, will be hoping to shock their guests in a game postponed last week (kick off 7.45pm).

Updated: 11:38 Tuesday, December 11, 2001