The two-week break could arguably be a blessing in disguise for Barrow AFC manager Ian Evatt, who is hoping the respite will give some of his injured players a chance to recover.

Until the long trip to Torquay United just under two weeks ago, the Bluebirds had been steered reasonably clear of injuries, but they have threatened to pile up since.

Had AFC reached the first round of the FA Cup, it is likely they would have had to prepare for their tie with a slightly depleted line-up, shorn of the leadership qualities of the likes of Josh Granite (dislocated shoulder), Jason Taylor (concussion) and Sam Hird thigh).

Evatt said: "We need to regroup and we have to look at the injuries.

"Obviously, Jason Taylor is on concussion protocol, so he should be OK for the two weeks.

"Josh Granite definitely not now will be available, Sam Hird is potentially going to be OK for Notts County and with Dior [Angus] and Brad [Barry], we're still doing some research with those two.

"All we can do is give the players rest and recuperation and try and get them back together for a big Christmas push because Sutton was a huge win for a number of reasons.

"We've given ourselves a big opportunity now to push on in this league, which is what we all want."

When Barrow do resume their campaign at Notts County on November 16, they'll do so three points and four league positions better off than the Magpies, who are in their first-ever season outside the Football League.

For now, however, Evatt is pleased for the rest, saying: "We've put ourselves in a fantastic position, but it's only the start of it.

"We're only in November and the league finishes in April, so it's not about where we are now."