BORO face tough away trips as they look for progress in the league and cup. Mark Stimson s side visit Burton Albion tomorrow (Friday) night in the Nationwide Conference. Boro then travel to North Wales in the FA Cup first round to play League Two struggle

BORO face tough away trips as they look for progress in the league and cup.

Mark Stimson's side visit Burton Albion tomorrow (Friday) night in the Nationwide Conference.

Boro then travel to North Wales in the FA Cup first round to play League Two strugglers Wrexham the following Saturday (November 11).

Boss Stimson said: "Both the league and the cup are important to me.

"It's important we get consistency as we were good against Dagenham and now Forest Green but poor against Northwich. It frustrates me and Scott (Barrett).

"The Burton game will be a massive test. I rate them as a top three side. If we get anything from this game, it will be good.

"It was a great performance to beat Forest Green on Saturday and our goal was to reach the first round.

"Hopefully we can spring a surprise at Wrexham. I'm sure we will have plenty of support going to watch us."

Striker Tony Thorpe will be back in contention after returning from his loan spell at Grimsby.

Stimson continued: "Before he went to Grimsby, he was down the pecking order.

"Tony realises he is probably fourth choice at the moment. Steve (Morison) and George (Boyd) have been scoring goals and Jon (Nurse) can also play up front.

"Steve ended up with two goals on Saturday and George was doing things that deserve a better level. To see George play in Stevenage colours is great.

"And Steve is a true natural goalscorer who has got a fantastic attitude and with his ability, I'm sure he will play at a higher level as well."

Attempts to play in players on loan from three League clubs - Barnet, Northampton and Southend - have failed this week. Two of the players were injured while playing or training with their clubs and Stimson admitted: "It obviously wasn't meant to be".

Former England winger Steve Guppy, sidelined in recent weeks, is making steady improvement from his injury.