CARL Macauley has admitted he is hoping Witton Albion’s luck holds when a draw for the FA Cup third qualifying round is made later today.

His side have been given home advantage for the past five ties they have played in the competition and on only one occasion since his appointment have they travelled away.

That was for a preliminary round tie at Atherton Collieries two years ago, and they won 3-1.

“I know every manager answers this question in the same way but we just want to play at our place,” he told the Guardian following a 2-1 victory against Spennymoor Town on Saturday.

“We’ve proven time and again that we can match anybody here, and did so again.”

The only other occasion Witton have visited an opponent for an FA Cup fixture with the former Marine boss in charge was for a replay against Stalybridge Celtic in September 2016.

That game was switched to Mossley’s Seel Park because the floodlights at Bower Fold needed repairs, and Albion bowed out following a 2-1 defeat.

Macauley said: “We’re two more wins away from the first round, and to get there would be brilliant for the club in so many ways.”

The third qualifying round draw is due to be published by the FA at 1pm.