Football ANDY Preece is hoping Northwich Victoria can ride their newfound wave of optimism to reach greater heights.

The club has been engulfed by an overwhelming buzz after they were drawn at home against League One side Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup First Round.

Vics’ plum tie on November 8, kick off 1.30pm, will be televised live on ITV1, putting the club back in the spotlight for all the right reasons.

It is a welcome boost after a difficult year and builds on the positivity already generated by Preece’s in-form team.

Their 3-0 win against FC United of Manchester on Saturday, which secured their passage to the FA Cup’s main draw, was their seventh triumph in the past eight games.

Now Vics’ boss is hoping cup fever can provide a lift both on and off the pitch, helping to push his side into the Blue Square North promotion picture and bring back absent fans.

“It’s amazing, it’s just really been great,” said Preece.

“Since I took over things have been really good and we are moving in the right direction.

“To get a tie like this so soon is just beyond our wildest dreams.

“We’ve got to keep this enthusiasm going now because it could really make our season.”

He added: “It’s reward for a lot of hard work - from the owner Jim Rushe to my assitant Andy Morrison, the players, the fans and a lot of people behind the scenes who often work for nothing.

“Everyone has been working hard and they are starting to reap the rewards now.

“You only get out of it what you put in.”

Charlton are currently flying high in League One, sitting second, a single point behind leaders Leeds United.

Just over two years ago, the London-based club were competing in the Premiership, finishing as high as seventh in 2004, and Preece is excited by the challenge it offers his players.

“It’s going to be a great experience,” he said.

“We can pit our wits against League One opponents and I’m confident we can compete because I believe we have players who could play in League Football.

“We don’t really have to worry about the result because there won’t be any pressure on us so we can play with freedom and enjoy the occasion.”

But first, attention must switch to Saturday’s game with Stafford Rangers, which Preece has labelled ‘massive’ in the club’s bid to push themselves into the Blue Square North promotion race.

He said: “We talked about the FA Cup game for a couple of days and let the players enjoy it but the focus now quickly turns to Stafford.

“It’s a massive game for us and will be crucial if we want to keep climbing the table.

“Stafford score a lot of goals and they’ve got a young, enthusiastic team with a good work ethic so we’ll have to match that.”

Vics travel to Stafford Rangers in the Blue Square North on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

A supporters bus leaves the memorial hall at 12.30pm bound for Marston Road.

Adults pay £10, concessions £8.

To reserve a seat, call Dave Thomas on 01606 815227.

Ticket news for the FA Cup First Round tie against Charlton is expected to be released by the club later this week.