Matt Calland's men make the trip to Bridgend to take on Celtic Crusaders delighted but relieved after squeezing to a narrow win at Dewsbury on Monday.

And Royston conceded that while the team were not at their best in that heartstopping scrap at the Rams Stadium, it was hardly ideal conditions for them to turn on the style.

"It must be the narrowest pitch in the country up there," said the Aussie full back.

"The players are so close together, the backs don't get chance to get into the game but Dewsbury are used to it and it is very tough to play against them there.

"But while we could not pass it around, we battled it out and we were pleased with the character we showed.

"You can't always win pretty and at the end of the day it's another three points and we'll be looking for three more at Celtic Crusaders."

Fax eased to victory in last year's Northern Rail Cup quarter final against then National League Two Celtic Crusaders at the Shay, but they have strengthened since then.

Yet while Royston admitted it would be a far tougher proposition facing the Welsh side in their own backyard, he was confident there was enough quality in the Fax ranks to see them through.

"I understand they weren't at full strength at the Shay last year but I've got a few mates who play there and they said they have strengthened since then. They are full time and after a place in Super League, so we know it will be a hard game," said Royston.

"Matt Calland was not happy with our defence at Dewsbury and we have not been happy ourselves. We know we have to work on that, but I believe we are one of the strongest sides in the competition and we are going down there confident we can play well and win."

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