PICKERING Town manager Paul Marshall has promised the Pikes will "embrace" the challenge of the Evo-Stik League east ahead of tomorrow's opener.

The Pikes tomorrow start their first-ever season at Step 4 level with a trip to to fellow promoted side AFC Mansfield, before hosting Northern Counties East League premier champions Pontefract Collieries on Tuesday.

These league fixtures come in the wake of an "amazing" FA Cup extra preliminary round 2-0 win at Bishop Auckland, which was settled by second-half goals from Joe Danby and Ryan Blott.

And Marshall has issued a rallying call to Pikes fans ahead of the meeting with the ESL west outfit Colne in the next round as he hopes to see a large turnout at Mill Lane from the Town faithful.

He said: “Bishop Auckland gives us a massive boost - it was an amazing win. After a very average pre-season, it was great to start the new season with a win at such a well-renowned FA Cup team like Bishop Auckland.

“It was just a brilliant day and an unexpected win for us because everybody thought we would lose.

“The main thing (now) is getting a big crowd to Mill Lane for the Colne game.

“Everybody knows the league is going to be tough. We’ll have the lowest budget and we’re not in a situation where we can attract players, out in Pickering, so we’ll have to use our experience.

“But we know the lads we have will be giving it their all.

“We know about Ponte and Mansfield, and we’re looking forward to seeing the league champions come to Mill Lane.

“We’re very much looking forward to it. It’s a massive step and the first time in the club’s history they’re played at this level.

“It’s an amazing time for the committee, the supporters and the players and we’re going to embrace and enjoy it.”

Pickering have strengthened ahead of their league opener, signing Jack Reynolds from rivals Tadcaster Albion and securing 18-year-old centre-back Josh Rogerson on a month-long loan from York City, but that could be extended.

Denny Ingram will take charge of the Mansfield game as Marshall is away at midfielder Nick Thompson's wedding.

Tadcaster Albion begin their east division campaign with a home fixture against Carlton Town, who finished 19th in the south division last term.

Scarborough Athletic make the trip to Hednesford Town as the premier division kicks off.

In NCEL division one, Selby Town tomorrow host Campion following Wednesday's 6-3 win at Ollerton Town. On Saturday, the Robins beat Whickham 3-2 in the FA Cup extra preliminary round.

Last season's division one champions Knaresborough Town host Liversedge in the premier division while Harrogate Railway Athletic host Staveley Miners Welfare.

Harrogate Town visit Aldershot Town up in the National League.