CUP fever is starting to engulf the county town as the Magpies look to reach the first round proper for the first time since 2008.

Dorchester are on the cusp of potentially securing a lucrative tie against Football League opposition and on the evidence of yesterday’s fourth qualifying round draw they stand every chance of gaining that opportunity.

Although Bury Town beat Hampton & Richmond 4-0 to reach this stage and are riding high in the Ryman Premier Division, they still sit one league below the Magpies, who will fancy their chances of progressing particularly with home advantage.

However, pragmatic boss Phil Simkin is not one to take anything for granted and reckons his side will not have it all their own way against the in-form Blues.

Commenting on the tie, which will be played at the Greene King IPA Stadium on October 20, the Magpies’ boss said: “My initial reaction when I first heard the draw was at least it is another home tie.

“I understand they are a very good side and I have no doubts that it will be another big test for us. Obviously, I will be speaking to the Hampton & Richmond manager and getting as much information on them as possible but our home form is very good and I would like to think that will carry us through.

“The FA Cup is very important for loads of reasons, not least of all financial, and having had two good pay days already we would like to have another one.”

The prize pot for getting past Bury is £12,500 but although that would obviously be massive for the club, Simkin is also an old romantic where the FA Cup is concerned. He added: “There really is nothing like it and it tends to bring the best out of people and excites people.

“I have been waiting on tenterhooks to see who we would get. I wanted a home game or a big tie at someone like Luton Town away, and the fact we have got one of those is pleasing.

“Before that though, we have another difficult game in the league to negotiate first at Billericay Town on Saturday (3pm).

“Since the start of the season all the boys have done well and I couldn’t ask any more of them. The aim now is to just try and keep it going.”

Dorchester’s progression in the cup means the home clash against Bromley in Blue Square Bet South will now be moved to a later date.