NEWPORT County and Tiverton - two sides battling for FA Cup glory last week - clash in the Dr Martens League Premier Division at Spytty Park tomorrow afternoon (3pm).

A point separates the teams in the wrong half of the table, County on 19 from 16 matches. County boss Tim Harris has already done his homework on Tiverton, who lost in a FA Cup-tie switched to Cardiff City, and he's also had a word with City boss Alan Cork. Harris said: "When I spoke to 'Corky' in the week, I think he was quite thankful they did not take their early opportunities.

"I have known Martyn Rogers (Tiverton manager) for years and he has been very successful.

"When you get involved in a cup run it does not matter how hard you try, it does take the emphasis off the league."

County, on occasions, have been exasperating and successfully consistent has not been a phrase readily springing to mind.

County's cup form has given the fans a clear picture of the heights they are capable of reaching. They must do it in the league.

Harris added: "We have been inconsistent in the league to say the least. "We have done our homework on Tiverton and know what to expect. Unless you are mentally prepared then you are going to come unstuck.

"If you think you are going out for a stroll then you'll get punished." Central defender Billy Clark has an Achilles' tendon injury and Harris may well rest him. Garry Shephard, replaced 20 minutes from time at Blackpool by Steve Cowe, was again substituted in the FAW Premier Cup tie against Carmarthen.

He has a groin strain, but is expected to play and Martin Paul, recovered from a hamstring injury, is also in the reckoning for a recall.

County: Mountain, (from) Robison, Eckhardt, Perry, Benton, James, Rose, Davies, Ryan, Shephard, Cowe, Paul, Thomas, Walker, Souter, Plant.

*PICTURED: Martin Paul has recovered fropm a hamstring injury.