Scarborough hit the trophy trail at Runcorn tomorrow seeking to rediscover their famous knock-out form.

The FA Umbro Trophy, which saw Boro enjoy four trips to Wembley in the 1970s, provides the Seadogs with their last realistic chance of silverware this season.

And although they won't be able to renew their acquaintance with the Twin Towers - this year's final will be at Villa Park - boss Neil Thompson is keen to embark on a good cup run.

Beverley-born Thompson, 37, was "just a boy" when Boro won the competition in 1973, '76 and '77.

He knows all about the club's old Trophy traditions, but he added: "That happened 20 to 30 years ago.

"It's great for the history of the football club but what I'm concerned about is this year.

"This is a big game for us. We are due a good cup run and it will be nice to start it well at Runcorn."

The form-book suggests an easy victory for Conference club Boro against a side struggling in the UniBond League premier division, whose latest result was a 3-1 defeat at high-flying Stalybridge Celtic on Tuesday.

However, Runcorn have a good record on their sloping pitch, with only two defeats at home this term, and Thompson knows anything can happen in cup football.

"I went to watch Runcorn at Stalybridge and although they got beat they're a big strong side and could cause us problems," he said.

"They're going to up their game so we will have to make sure we guard against that. These games are always difficult. I don't envisage this one being any different.

"But we are doing well in the league - we are eight games unbeaten - and we want to get as far as we can in the Trophy. There's a big prize at the end of it and reaching Villa Park has got to be our ultimate aim."

Hamstring strains for sweeper Thompson and striker Steve Brodie suffered in last week's 1-1 draw with Leigh rules both out of contention tomorrow, with the player-boss yet to decide who will come in.

Matty Russell and Romaine Faure could return to the defence, while Gareth Williams could replace Brodie up front, with Denny Ingram moving into his midfield spot. Youngsters Andrew Windross or Stewart Morris could also start in attack.

Scarborough (possible): Priestley, Russell, Rennison, Faure, Ellender, Brunton, Stoker, Ingram, Pounder, Williams and Diallo. Subs from: Woods, Gildea, Lythe, Morris, Windross and Keegan.

Updated: 12:18 Friday, January 12, 2001