And, after going down 2-0 at Holker Street on Wednesday night, Telford now face a tough second leg at the Bucks Head on Sunday against an in-form Barrow, who extended their fantastic, unbeaten run since 26 January to 19 games.

BBC: Smith's job safe if Telford fail

The Black Cats take on Blue Square Premier Barrow in the third round and Bruce has targeted a cup run as a route to silverware and European football.

BBC: Sunderland boss Steve Bruce wants FA Cup success

They last competed in the Challenge Cup proper four years ago, reaching the fourth round before losing to Barrow, and Spencely thinks this year's team have the quality to go on another Cup run.

BBC: Cooke proudly holds aloft the Challenge Cup Trophy in 2005