THE Lancashire Challenge Trophy kicks off tonight with a number of first round ties.

For Padiham it is a chance for manager Liam Smith to field a few squad players but also try to spark a run in the competition.

The Storks are on the road at Squires Gate looking to follow up a fine 4-0 league win over Litherland REMYCA last weekend.

Liam Smith and Dixon Lambert’s men are sixth in the Hallmark Security League Premier Division table, two places and three points above tonight’s hosts.

“We will be giving a few players minutes but we also want to win the game and get through,” said Smith.

“We are out of the FA Cup and the FA Vase and we want to go as far as we can.

“The league is our priority but this is a good chance for us to try and play some higher-level clubs and perhaps reach a semi-final or a final and win some silverware.

“We are looking forward to the game after the win on Saturday.”

Elsewhere, Clitheroe, beaten finalists last year, begin their campaign with a home game against Atherton LR while AFC Darwen visit Colne and Nelson entertain Atherton Collieries.

Chorley are the defending champions and received a bye into the second round along with Bacup Borough as nine sides were put through to the last 16.

Meanwhile, in the Evo-Stik League West Ramsbottom United are on the road at Kendal Town.

Mark Fell’s side are eighth in the table and a win could move them into the play-off places.