All eyes will be on Victoria Stadium as Lincoln City will be looking to avoid a cup upset as they travel to Blue Square North side Nortwhich Victoria in the FA Cup second round. The Vics have already claimed one scalp, having beaten League One side Charlton Athletic 1-0 at home in the first round. The tie will be shown on national television and Lincoln City boss Chris Sutton is well aware of the threat Northwich will pose.

“We don’t underestimate Northwich, they won well against Charlton and they may even look at themselves as favourites. We fully respect what Northwich have to offer and they’re certainly a threat. We’re certainly under no illusions [and] it’s going to be a tough game. They knocked out a team who are at the top of League One so psychologically they shouldn’t be worried about us at the bottom of League Two. They’re very well organised, we’ve got to make sure we defend properly and try to pose a threat. They’re a decent side, especially at home, but we’ve got to go there and do our best.”

Lincoln City’s manager will be without a host of players for the crucial game, with a win earning the club an estimated £100,000, not to mention a third round tie where Premiership clubs are included in the draw. Sergio Torres, Stefan Oakes, Anthony Pulis, Paul Connor, and Lenell John-Lewis are all ruled out through injury, Paul Green is not yet match fit, Adam Watts is doubtful, Aaron Brown and Ian Pearce are suspended, and Nathan Baker, Eric Lichaj, and Michael Gordon are all ineligible.                          

“We do have problems with injuries, suspensions, and whatever but it’s a good opportunity for the players to come out fighting and show a bit of character. We’d like to be stronger but it’s a good opportunity for other players to step up. It’s not ideal, that goes without saying, but that’s the way it goes.”

The second round tie will be televised on ITV 1 with coverage starting at 12:15pm.