Cumbrian club aiming to break 42-year old record in Saturday's Buildbase FA Vase tie

Only three months into his tenure at the Frenchfields Stadium, Penrith AFC's manager James Nichols already has the chance to break a 42-year record.

Nichols, who took charge of the club as the third manager in as many weeks in September, can move into the fourth round of The FA Vase if they beat Atherton Collieries on Saturday – the first time in the club’s history should they do so.

However, build-up to the game hasn't been ideal with the weather wreaking havoc on the fixture list which means Penrith have played once in three weeks and have up to eight games in hand on their league rivals.

However, Nichols insisted it won’t affect his side in the build up to the this weekend’s Buildbase FA Vase clash.

"Everyone at the club is buzzing,” he said. "Everybody is desperate to be involved and play no wants to miss out on a game of this magnitude.

“Some people will have to and that’s a tough decision. Everyone wants to do well and help the club progress which is great to see.

"We’ve had a nightmare in the last couple of weeks when it comes to fixtures.

"It’s been difficult as we’re still in three cups. We haven’t played back to back league games since early September. It’s been tough to get a real run of form going.

“There isn’t a lot we can do though, we’ve only played once in three weeks as well so it’s important to start quickly and get into our rhythm and play the football we want.

“I’ve only been here since September and to do well in a national competition is a big thing for the club and a big thing for me. It looks good and reflects on what I’m trying to do.”

Buildbase FA Vase history
Atherton Collieries have also never progressed past the third round of The FA Vase, reaching this stage last season and in 1992. This will be the fifth attempt for Penrith to try and advance to the fourth round, having reached this stage previously in 1991, 1993, 2008 and 2009.

Did you know?
In 2007, Penrith FC changed their name to Penrith Town, but a merger a year later with Northern Football Alliance club Penrith United saw the old name resurrected.

One to watch
Striker Robbie Hebson returned to Penrith AFC on Thursday, signing in time to go into the squad for their FA Vase clash with Atherton Collieries.
Penrith-born Hebson had been playing for Cumbrian neighbours Workington Reds in the Northern Premier League but is now back with Penrith having come through the ranks at Carlisle United.

The prize
A place in the fourth round and a step closer to Wembley is on offer for the sides, along with a prize fund of £975 for the winning club and £325 for the losing team.