PICKERING Town will play their opening Isuzu FA Vase fixture at an EFL stadium.

The Pikes, now led by former Leeds United forward Tony Hackworth after the sacking of promotion expert Rudy Funk earlier this month, travel to Ebac Northern League division one outfit Penrith for their First Qualifying Round fixture on Saturday, August 26 (3pm).

However, owing to delays in the installation of a new all-weather 3G pitch at Penrith, the tie will now be played at Brunton Park, the home of Sky Bet League One newcomers Carlisle United.

The Pikes reached the Second Qualifying Round of last year’s competition, their run ending with a 3-1 defeat at Northern League division two side Brandon United after their opening victory at Redcar Town.

Penrith were beaten at the first hurdle last term after losing 3-1 to Horden Community Welfare.

Pickering will be running a coach for supporters to Carlisle, priced at £15 per person. Seats will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, with the coach departing Mill Lane at 10.30am.