CHORLEY manager Mark Patterson believes it would be a waste if his side didn't at least make the Lancashire FA Marsden Trophy final, writes SUZANNE GELDARD.

For the Magpies chief feels they have come too far in the competition not to have anything to show for their efforts.

Patterson's men entertain Nationwide Conference promotion chasers Morecambe at Victory Park tonight (kick-off 7.45pm).

But the former Leigh RMI boss is confident they won't be intimidated by their high-flying opponents.

"It's important for the club that we get something from this competition," Patterson said.

"Morecambe haven't had the best away form but they did well to win 4-2 away on Saturday.

"I imagine Jim Harvey might try one or two players out, but they are two leagues above us and are full-time so whatever side he puts out I would expect them to be fitter than my players.

"But we've come so far to get to the semi-finals that it's important we get out there and give it a go.

"It's not just another game. We want to get to the final so we'll go out with all guns blazing."

And Patterson admitted that he wouldn't say no to a showdown with Accrington Stanley in the trophy final.

"It would be good for the club, we'd both have big crowds on so that would be a nice final," he said.

But, whatever happens tonight, Patterson is confident his players continue the richer vein of form they have shown in recent games.

"I'd love to be able to change the cup games into league games and take the points, but if we carry on playing the way we have been then we will have a good chance," he said.

"One thing's for sure, Morecambe will know they've been in a game."

He added: "I'm happy with the squad I've got now. I'm always on the lookout for new player to improve the squad, but at the moment I'm reasonably happy with the way things are going."

Tom Raw, who is on loan from Scarborough, and Lee Pryers will have fitness tests ahead of the game.