BACUP BOROUGH face higher league opposition when they meet Nantwich in the Worthington Challenge Trophy tomorrow.

Bacup are mid-table in NWCL Division Two and they will fancy their chances against Nantwich, who are struggling at the bottom of Division One.

But they will be without new signings Julian Dowe and Shaun Cryer, who are cup tied.

"With a full-strength squad, I would be disppointed not to take something out of the game, but we haven't got a full-strength squad," said manager Brent Peters.

Nicky Taylor is also out after breaking a finger and severing a tendon in another finger in an accident at work, and Martin Peters is doubtful (groin strain).

Karl Stanley (hamstring) should be fit.

Peters has named Stuart Farnell as his new assistant.

But Peters will be without former captain Damian Moran, who has received notice that his contract will be terminated in a fortnight.

Bacup will still hold his registration. "I would be stupid to just rip his contract up," said Peters.

"He is a good player, that is why I put him on a contract. He can go and train with any other club but if they want to sign him they must come to us."

Bacup could demand a fee for the 26-year-old.