Hayes & Yeading manager Garry Haylock says he's not worried about his team being motivated, or about fitness levels, against United in the FA Cup next week – but he is concerned about the Oxford players' extra speed of thought.

The Blue Square South club have won 11 and drawn one of their last 13 games to climb up to third.

That means there are technically only nine league places between the teams, but Haylock says his boys will be very much the underdogs.

"It's great for the players to play at the Kassam Stad- ium on a good pitch and in front of a big crowd so in that sense it's a good draw for us," he said.

"But when you think about progression in the competition, it's a bit different."

Irishman Haylock chatted with U's boss Darren Patterson on Monday, soon after the draw was made.

"I spoke to Darren, I know him from last season because we borrowed Joel Ledgister," he explained.

"I played in Northern Ireland for five or six years, we never played together. But we both know a lot of people there.

"From what I've seen, I think he's been a bit let down this season, but he's a good manager and I'm sure Oxford will climb the table.

"It's full-time football and the speed of thought, and quality, of the players which is so much better. But no-one will need to be motivated for the game. And our fitness levels are good."