PICKERING Town boss Steve Roberts believes a good cup run can give his side a boost in their league competition.

At the weekend, the Pikes progressed to the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy with a 2-1 win over fellow Step 4 outfit Ramsbottom United.

Recent signing Alhassane Keita scored a goal in each half to see the Pikes through after Steven Hoy had equalised for Ramsbottom.

Northern Premier League east division outfit Pickering's reward is a trip to premier division side Morpeth Town on Saturday, October 30.

Though 18th in their division, Morpeth have been going well in cup competitions, and are due a trip to National League North outfit York City on Saturday in the FA Cup fourth round qualifying.

They therefore know what it is to be an underdog and the threat an underdog can pose.

For Pickering, second from bottom in their table, the league is a priority - but a cup run can give them a shot in the arm, Roberts believes.

"You can always fall foul of not being prepared and thinking it's going to be an easy game," Roberts said. "We know quite a bit about Morpeth already and I don't think their league position is a true reflection of the quality they've got.

"Our performance levels are picking up and I'm sure the results will follow.

"The league's always a priority but it's nice to have that break in the cup. From our point of view, a cup run is important and it will be nice to stay in.

"It builds confidence for the league as well. We'll be going there full of confidence, I'm sure.

"It's not the best draw, but looking at it financially, it's really important.

"I always look at fixtures like that as a no-fear fixture - it's a free hit.

"We've been there before. It's a nice set-up.

"We'll go and try and express ourselves."