DAVE McNabb says Bury are in for a tough test when they travel up to Whickham in the second round of the FA Vase on Saturday - but it is a challenge he is looking forward to.

The Shakers boss said any trip to the North East is difficult and he is expecting nothing less against a side who are currently 15th in Northern League Division One.

But Bury travel up to the Gateshead-based club on the back of four straight victories that include four clean sheets - the latest a 2-0 win at Kendal Town last weekend, sealed thanks to two goals from Andy Scarisbrick.

Just like that trip to Kendal, McNabb says going further afield will only help build the camaraderie in the camp.

“It is going to be another tough game, going to the North East is never easy,” he told the club website. “It is one of those ones that you always remember back to when you have played in cup competitions over the years. So it is going to be a really tough game but again it is one we are really looking forward to.”

He added: “It is a new group, we are still developing so that time together on the coach on the way there and on the way back, a little bit of a sing-song, will help build that team camaraderie.”

The win at Kendal sees Bury hold a four-point lead at the top of NWCL Premier Division and that includes having three points deducted due to fielding an ineligible player against Glossop North End on July 29.

Looking back on the game, McNabb said: “I think the shape out of possession, the way we pressed the ball was exceptional. I thought we looked really comfortable...they are a very good side and I am really pleased how we have controlled the game.”

McNabb was happy to see Scarisbrick get both goals against the Mintcakes.

He said: “Andy is very reflective of his own performances and I think last week he was disappointing with his performance overall in a tough game (against West Didsbury and Chorlton).

“The set back is never as big as the comeback so they say and with players like Andy and Jordan (Butterworth) and a few others, I thought they were excellent.

“It’s what you want, you want a bit of character and the boys showed it throughout.”