Hitchin Town boss Mark Burke is expecting a tough match against Needham Market in the FA Cup at Top Field on Monday evening.

The Fishponds Road outfit kicked off their league season in fine style by thrashing Alvechurch 5-1 on Saturday.

Goals from a Layne Eadie penalty, a brace from Callum Stead along with second half strikes from Luke Brown and substitute Marcus Gouldbourne sealed an entertaining 5-1 victory for Hitchin over ten-man Alvechurch, who notched a consolation through Kieran Cook.

The Canaries carried on where they left off in pre-season after eight wins on the bounce during their summer preparations including an excellent 2-0 victory over National League Barnet.

Hopes are high that Burke's side can transfer their excellent league start to the world's oldest cup competition and embark on another stirring run.

The Canaries have pedigree in the FA Cup with the club's antecedents taking part in the first ever campaign in 1871-72.

In the mid-1990s Hitchin Town provided the headlines as they reached the second round after beating Bristol Rovers 2-1 on an unforgettable afternoon at Top Field, with a side that included boss Burke.

More recently, in 2018, the Canaries once again reached the first round, falling to Solihul Moors after an epic cup run which included dramatic penalty-shoot outs along the way including a never-to-be-forgotten evening victory at Leatherhead to send them through to the first round proper.

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Looking forward to hosting Needham Market, Burke was cautious as he spoke to Nub News.

He said: "Yes, it would be nice to go on another cup run and make some more FA Cup memories but it's going to be tough.

"They're a good side and we won't be underestimating them in the slightest. We'll pay them the respect they deserve, work hard and see where it gets us.

"Last season our two league games were very tight affairs with honours even. Like ourselves Needham Market have had continuity with their team from their last campaing.

"I anticipate another hard fought and entertaining game and I am hoping we can attract a large attendance and your great support can provide a real boost for the team."