STOCKPORT County will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s defeat as they host Vanarama National League Woking in an FA Cup first round tie on Saturday (KO 1500 GMT).

The Hatters suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Kidderminister last time out but should be boosted by the return of top goalscorer Danny Lloyd and targetman Josh Amis.

The duo, who are both one booking away from a suspension, were rested by manager Jim Gannon ahead of Woking’s visit to Edgeley Park this weekend.

Former AFC Fylde winger Lloyd has scored in every round of the completion so far.

County will be missing Scott Duxbury and Glenn Rule through injury though, as well as long term absentees Ryan Ellison and Adam Thomas.

Stockport are playing at this stage of the competition for the first time in four years and will be hopeful of a victory against a fellow part-time side.

The visitors are 21st in the Vanarama National League and will be without prolific striker Matt Tubbs who has returned to parent club Forest Green Rovers following a loan spell at the Kingfield Stadium.

The Cards are also sweating on the fitness of defenders Ismail Yakubu, Zac Ansah, Jake Caprice and Brian Saah as they head North.

Garry Hill and his side travel to Edgeley Park without an away win to their name this season and will be looking to put that right on Saturday afternoon.

County are at home for the fourth consecutive round after dispatching Hyde United, Salford City and Bishop Auckland at the first attempt.

Meanwhile, Woking were taken to a replay in the last round, eventually overcoming fellow Vanarama National League side Torquay United – an improvement on the same stage last year – a 3-0 defeat against Maidenhead United which resulted in the whole squad being made available for loan.

The Hatters’ home kit will be emblazoned with the symbol of the poppy on Saturday and a minutes silence will also take place before kick-off to honour the sacrifices made by British service personnel.

It promises to be an eagerly contested game with a place in the second round, as well as a much needed financial reward of £18,000, on offer for the winners.

The draw for the second round takes place on Monday evening.

By Joe Canavan
@joecanavan89

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