PICKERING Town will host Runcorn Linnets in the next round of the FA Trophy later this month after their win over Trafford.

Jason Barnes’ goal on the hour mark was enough to secure a 1-0 win for Pickering at Mill Lane and book their spot in the third qualifying round of the competition.

Trafford made a bright start to the game, with number nine Florian Yonsian involved in some early chances while Pikes goalkeeper Charlie Andrew was equal to a low drive from Matty Morgan.

Pickering continued to withstand pressure from the home side as Yonsian shot wide before Chris Palmer struck the side netting.

Yonsian also saw an effort cleared off the line by defender Jack Johnson, having beaten keeper Andrew.

But Pickering rallied and finished the first-half strongly and picked up from where they left off in the second period.

Eventually their endeavours paid off as Barnes broke the deadlock with 60 minutes played.

Trafford keeper Matt Cooper was able to save a shot from former York City defender Jake Watson but Barnes was quick to fire home the rebound in what would prove to be the winning goal.

The Pikes were given a home fixtures against fellow Pitching In Northern Premier League north/west division side Runcorn in Monday afternoon’s draw.

Runcorn were 10th in the league table when the coronavirus pandemic struck to cancel the 2019/20 season.

The Merseyside club are yet to lose to league game this term, having drawn three and won once.

Their only defeat this season came on penalties in the FA Cup against Marine.

The tie will take place on Saturday, October 31, meaning that their scheduled home league game against Pontefract Collieries will need to be played at a different date.

Should the game against Runcorn end level after 90 minutes, the tie will be decided by a penalty shootout.

Progression from the FA Trophy tie would bag the club £2,450 while they would earn £625 in defeat.

Pickering return to league action tonight when they host Brighouse Town.