Latics could join North East teams

Last updated : 07 September 2007 By The Chairman

Athletic could find themselves in the North East section in the draw for the next round of the Johnstone's Paints Trophy. There are nine North West teams who have gone through to the next stage but there are only seven from the North East. As Athletic are the furthest east geographically of the teams in the North West they could join the teams from the North East.

Initially they could have been paired in a derby game with with Rochdale, Stockport or Morecambe but could now find themselves up against Leeds United, Hartlepool, Doncaster, Darlington, Grimsby Town, Rotherham or Lincoln City, a less attractive prospect unless they are drawn at home. The draw will take place on Sky Sports' Soccer AM programme this Saturday.