WITH World Cup fever starting to sweep the nation, Barry Town United have been handed a plum draw in the opening round of theWord Cup tournament for 2014-15.

Gavin Chesterfield's title-winning side will tackle Merthyr Town of the Southern League in the floodlit competition at Jenner Park, in the week beginning on Monday, August 11.

theWord Cup (formerly the Welsh Premier League Cup) was expanded two seasons ago and now includes the top six qualifying clubs from both the North and South Wales feeder leagues.

The 2014-15 tournament sought applications for four further 'wildcard' places from all clubs based in Wales geographically; and both Barry and Merthyr were successful in securing a berth, along with Denbigh Town and Llanidloes Town.

All four were deemed to meet the Welsh Premier panel's wildcard criteria, which welcomed clubs celebrating milestones, enjoying league success and/or wishing to reignite old rivalries.

As a result, a total of 28 teams will compete next season over five rounds, including TNS, Bangor City and holders Carmarthen Town.

Though playing in different systems, Barry and Merthyr have met as recently as October 2011, when the Martyrs were invited back into the Welsh Cup in similar circumstances.

Barry ran out 3-0 winners that afternoon at Penydarren Park, with goals from Lewis Cosslett and Michael Hartley (2).

August however will see Merthyr's first visit to Jenner Park for a competitive fixture since 1999; a match which featured Barry boss Chesterfield as a visiting player.

The date and ticket information for the tie will be confirmed shortly, with supporters encouraged to visit www.barrytownunited.com for the latest updates.