PICKERING Town travel to Athersley Recreation in the Northern Counties East League premier division with renewed confidence after a thumping 7-0 midweek win over Maltby Main.

Manager Mitch Cook was delighted after a Lewis Taylor goal and braces from Billy Logan, Joel Ramm, and Joe Danby ended a run of three straight defeats for the Recreation Ground side.

The Pikes boss drafted in Old Malton goalkeeper Toby Wells for the Maltby match as he continues to struggle to find a settled occupant for the position and he could again be without influential midfielder Tony Hackworth, who is struggling with a back problem.

But Cook believes the win will provide a welcome fillip for his side following a difficult start to the campaign.

"It was nice not to be on the receiving side," he said, noting the number of times his men have conceded multiple goals this season. "It was a resounding good win. This league is as tough as it has been for a few years.

"I have seen Athersley this year and they are a big strong side who are really tough to play against, particularly at home.

"The victory was a real fillip for the players. It is a great lift for everyone."

On Wells, Cook said: "We were lucky. We signed him at 3pm on the afternoon. He did really well and we were delighted he helped us out. It's an ongoing situation. He is the seventh goalkeeper we have signed - we have six out injured."

Asked whether he would be playing against Athersley, Cook said: "That is something that has got to be resolved."

He continued: "Tony Hackworth has got a real problem with his back. We've got the knowledge that, after Saturday, he will have another week's rest. If he can do something, great, if not then he will have another week."

In NCEL division one, Knaresborough Town must contend with a trip to Penistone Church. Harrogate Town, who gained their first win in five when demolishing Brackley Town 5-0 last time out, will look to double up at Wetherby Road when they entertain Stockport County.

Their neighbours, Harrogate Railway, 14th in Evo-Stik League first division north, host promoted Brighouse Town as they bid to climb up the table. Scarborough Athletic await Darlington 1883 in the first qualifying round of the FA Trophy.