AFC Telford hopefuls fail to impress Liam Watson

All three have been handed game time in the last seven days, against Conwy on Saturday and Kidderminster Harriers on Tuesday.

But the trio failed to convince Watson to hand them a deal for the forthcoming Conference North promotion push.

Watson said: "I've cut back on a couple of trialists. Luke Bottomer has done alright but I haven't got a position for him and I think that James O'Neill has got to go out and play to be honest. He needs to get some first team football and learn his trade."

Those decisions leave Watson with three remaining unsigned players in his ranks.

Robbie Booth, Nathan Rooney and Martyn Jackson, all predominantly midfielders, remain in contention for the time being.

And it is in the middle of the park that Watson is aiming to strengthen before the big kick-off.

All three players could be set for another chance to impress against Skelmersdale tomorrow while Alan Moogan (muscle strain), Simon Grand (ankle) and Wes Baynes (hip) are all set to miss the trip to Lancashire, having picked up knocks in the 2-1 defeat to Kidderminster.

The trio look set to miss the home clash with Chester on Tuesday as well, but other minor injury concerns, Mike Phenix and Chris Lever, should both be fit for the weekend.

Watson said: "Wes and Simon will probably be out for about a week while Alan Moogan is probably going to be out for the same time.

"But Mike Phenix should be fine and Chris Lever should be too."

Tuesday's defeat was Telford's first loss during pre-season, following three straight wins against lower league opposition.

But Watson was pleased with the performance of his squad given the relative strength of their Conference National opponents.

And he will be looking for more of the same tomorrow against Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Division One North Champions Skelmersdale.

"It will be a physical test," said Watson. "But I was pleased with us on Tuesday. We competed for an hour against a good side before both teams made five or six changes."