STOCKTON TOWN will stage the biggest home game in their history at the start of next month after they were paired with former Premier League side Oldham Athletic in the third round of the FA Trophy.

Stockton were playing in the Wearside League just over a decade ago, but their rapid rise has taken them all the way to the Premier Division of the Northern Premier League.

The Anchors are pushing for a promotion that would see them join the likes of Darlington and Spennymoor Town in National League North, but as well as challenging at the top end of the table, Micky Dunwell’s side also now have a high-profile cup tie to look forward to.

Stockton, who were weekend winners over Scarborough Athletic in the FA Trophy second round, will host National League side Oldham at their Bishopton Road West ground on Saturday, December 7.

Oldham, who are currently fourth in the National League, were playing in the Premier League as recently as 1994, and were League Cup finalists in 1990.

In other third-round Trophy ties, Darlington will face a tough task as they travel to National League promotion hopefuls York City.

York are currently second in the National League table, two points behind leaders Forest Green, and will start as strong favourites when the Quakers visit their LNER Community Stadium.

Spennymoor Town face an all-National League North tie after they were drawn away to Alfreton Town, while Hartlepool United will host fellow National League side Tamworth.