Farsley Celtic travel to Gateshead on Saturday without the pressure of a relegation battle hanging over them because they, along with the rest of the Blue Square Premier clubs, join the FA Trophy this week.

The most prestigious and high-ranking competition in non-league soccer has reached the first round proper stage and the Celts have been handed an away tie against a side from two divisions below them in the pyramid system.

It has not been a happy time of late for Farsley, so they will be taking nothing for granted as they head for the International Stadium and their showdown with neighbours Guiseley's UniBond Premier Division rivals.

Farsley have not exactly had the best build-up towards their introduction to this season's competition. Last week they travelled to Weymouth, only for the fixture to be postponed on Saturday morning, and were then beaten at home by second-placed Torquay in midweek.

"We lost 2-1 but it was the best we have played for a while, despite the cold and frosty conditions," said Celts match-day secretary Alan Hirst.

Caretaker manager John Deacey had hoped to make another new signing in time for Saturday's game but Hirst confirmed that will not transpire. Deacey's last addition, former Bantams forward Steve Torpey, finally made his home debut on Wednesday.

Hirst said: "Steve played well, hitting the side-netting in the first half, and Lee Tuck came back into the side and did well. Roy Stamer scored a very good goal and James Knowles hit the bar with a fine effort.

"I know John is working on bringing in new players but nothing will be done in time for the weekend - but we can go to Gateshead in good spirits."