But Manchester Magic coach Jeff Jones believes the National Cup third-round clash between the two neighbours at the Amaechi Centre on Sunday will be closer than many think.
Bennison’s Division Three minnows have had to accept life in the shadow of their illustrious top-flight neighbours, finding success with their girls’ programme and gaining promotions with their men in recent years.
They go head to head with Magic the clear favourites – with the game followed by more a evenly-matched battle between the clubs’ women, also in the Cup.
“We hope to go there and give them a game,” said Bennison, who started the club 46 years ago.
“We know it will be tough, but our a lot of our players have come through the Magic system and know the Amaechi Centre. We will come away with our heads held high.
“The women’s game should be more even.”
Jones, who first takes his injury-hit team to Tees Valley tomorrow for an EBL Division One game, added: “It will be tougher than people think. They will be looking forward to coming to us and there will be a bit of spice and a good atmosphere.
“Hopefully, we can come through the Tees Valley game unscathed and without any more injuries and keep focused on the job against Stockport.”
The winners face Northumbria or Durham.
In the women’s contest, the winners will go on to face the winners of Cheshire vs Sheffield in the quarter-finals.
Both sides have unbeaten league records in action, with Mystics currently 3-0 in Division Two North, just ahead of Lapwings who have won their opening two games.
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