Carlisle United coach Frankie McAvoy predicts a tough test for the National League side when they visit Chatham Town’s Bauvill Stadium in the FA Trophy on Saturday

Chatham Town’s high-flying FA Trophy opponents have been warned to expect ‘a cup final atmosphere’ this Saturday.

National League leaders Carlisle United face Chatham at the Bauvill Stadium in an FA Trophy fourth-round tie.

The Bauvill is expected to be packed for the clash, as Isthmian Premier side Chatham attempt to pull off a cup shock.

Carlisle are managed by former Manchester United great Mark Hughes but it was their first-team coach Frankie McAvoy who previewed the match for the Cumbrians.

Speaking to the club, he said: “When Carlisle comes to town, it’s a big game for everybody.

“For a lot of teams, it’s like a cup final, and it gives them a platform to showcase themselves. We have to be ready for that.

“They’ll want to get the ball down and it’ll be a good test for us.”

Carlisle have been preparing for the match at Penrith FC, on a 3G surface, as the frost up north made it difficult to train on grass. It’s also enabled them to get used to what to expect at Chatham.

McAvoy said: “With the pitches being rock solid because of the frost, it’s been great to come here.

“The surface is similar to what we’ll face on Saturday, so it’s really helped the players get used to their footing and how the ball moves. It’s been worthwhile.

“When you know you’re going to be playing on a certain type of pitch at the weekend, being able to train on it is very beneficial. It helps you prepare properly and allows us to work on our game plan in the right conditions.”

Carlisle are expected to make changes this weekend as they prioritise the league. A flu virus in their camp hasn’t helped with the preparations.

The Blues are big favourites to win on Saturday, even if they rest key players, but insist they won’t be taking the game lightly.