Massive game for Boro

Boro were held by the Northern League first division table toppers on Saturday, with Ben Middleton’s second-half goal levelling proceedings.

Funk is without defenders Steve Ridley and Joe Lamplough for the clash, but he welcomes Tom Burgin and Paul Foot back into the selection process.

The victors will go on to face Ashington in the first qualifying round of the competition.

The Boro chief said: “We are all looking forward to what is a massive game for the club.

“We didn’t perform well on Saturday. There were glimpses, but it just wasn’t good enough.

“I’m confident that the lads will go out there tonight and give a much improved performance. Hopefully we’ll be heading home happy.”

Funk won’t have his eyes on the the cash up for grabs for progression, he is more interesting in the glitz and glamour of football’s oldest competition.

“I’m not interested in the financial matters, I’m more bothered about the fans’ enjoyment,” said Funk.

“The money side of things is more for my chairman and the people that deal with it.

“This competition is all about the glitz and glamour. There is no substitute for the feeling that you get from an FA Cup win.

“We saw it last year in the FA Trophy when we went to Telford. People were talking about it for weeks before the game.

“We are looking to create more thrills, spills and excitement this season.”