JAMES Meredith stressed the importance of City’s FA Cup derby clash at Halifax and declared: It’s just as big for us too.

The Bantams make their first visit to The Shay for 16 years on Sunday with the non-league hosts dreaming of pulling off a televised shock.

But there is a significant prize at stake for Phil Parkinson’s side – who will be cast in the role of favourites for the first time.

Both clubs will scoop £67,500 in TV cash as well their share of the gate, with a further £18,000 on offer for the winners. There is also the chance to progress towards the potentially money-spinning third round.

That could offer a hefty financial shot-in-the-arm as City look to claw back their predicted overspend for the season.

But Meredith insists that local pride will be the spur for the players to try to lift spirits after a run of four defeats in five games.

The defender said: “It’s the cup final for Halifax but this is equally important for us.

“We’re not going to let them come at us and bully us. They’re not going to turn us over.

“We’ll give it everything we’ve got for the fans to win the local derby.”

City, who have been boosted by Huddersfield's decision to allow Jon Stead to play, have now sold 3,000 tickets for Sunday’s midday showdown but are not expected to fill their 3,500 allocation.

Meredith has fond memories of their Capital One Cup exploits two seasons ago and would love to reward the fans with another tussle with top-flight opposition.

“We didn’t manage to get a Premier League club in the League Cup this year so maybe we’ll be able to with this one.

“That’s why it’s so important for everybody that we get the job done against Halifax.”

Meanwhile, Guiseley boss Mark Bower reckons an upset could be on the cards – though he hopes City will come through.

Bower, who played 254 games for the Bantams, also spent a season at Halifax and leans on Shaymen manager Neil Aspin for advice.

He said: "I'm a bit envious I won't be involved and it should be a close match. Halifax are in decent form and Bradford not so much.

"I would say with Bradford being away and in a bit of poor form it's one you could see an upset in. Halifax will be going into it with confidence and belief.

"Bradford have been struggling a bit and they've got one or two injuries, which is difficult when you lose some of your key players.

“I'm sure Neil Aspin has looked at their team and how Halifax can exploit them. But my allegiance is with Bradford.

"It'll be interesting to see how Bradford get on against a part-time team.

“They'll be looking to get back on form and Halifax will be keen to test themselves against a full-time club.”