Tommy Sloan admits classy Cove Rangers will provide Auchinleck Talbot with a stern William Hill Scottish Cup test.
Beechwood Park hosts the tie of the second round tomorrow as the West Region Junior big guns welcome Paul Hartley's SPFL League Two table-toppers.
And 'Bot gaffer Sloan insists his side will need to produce an even better performance than the one which ended Kelty Hearts' cup run in the last round if they are to get through.
He told Ayrshire Live: "We're trying to keep things as normal as possible going into another big match which is one we're looking forward to.
"We know we need to step up a gear as Cove are an excellent side and a much-improved side from last season.
"We're going well and things are ticking over nicely but I must stress that we will need to step it up again.
"Paul has brought in six or seven quality players which has made a big difference. I had a wee look at them the other week, they were very impressive and easy on the eye."
Meanwhile, Talbot star Craig McCracken is eyeing more road to Hampden success after scoring the winner in his side's famous 1-0 victory over Ayr United in last season's competition.
The big defender said: "We've done well so far but it's a step up in opposition and that will bring different challenges.
"The cup run was brilliant for the boys and the fans. There were some memorable trips topped off with the win against Ayr and the game at Tynecastle against Hearts. It's something I and the boys will never forget."
