Bucks to launch a Trophy charge
Assistant manager Larry Chambers today challenged AFC Telford United to launch the first major cup run of the club's short history. The Bucks launch their FA Trophy campaign with the visit of UniBond League division one table-toppers Eastwood in the first qualifying round tomorrow.
For all the progress made since the reforming of the Bucks in the summer of 2004, an extended run in knockout football has proved elusive.
And that is something Chambers, pictured, and manager Rob Smith are keen to address.
"The league is the priority and there is no escaping that but a good cup run can be a welcome distraction," he said.
"Rob and I had a good run with Willenhall two years ago when we got through three or four rounds and it gave everyone at the club a huge lift.
"After getting knocked out the FA Cup (by Halesowen) so early, it would give everybody - management, directors, players and supporters - a real boost to have a run in the Trophy.
"It's a big competition for all the non-League clubs and Eastwood will give it a right go tomorrow.
"We know them well because we played them four times at Willenhall a couple of years ago and their style of play hasn't changed that much."
The Bucks are likely to be without Justin Marsden, but the striker's setback on his groin is not thought to be serious.
Dave Woodvine and Carl Rodgers both sat out training as a precaution last night but the duo, along with Richard Teesdale, will be assessed tomorrow morning.
Jai Stanley will be included in the squad for the first time since his switch from Worcester, but striker Lee Moore is unavailable as parent club Tamworth don't want him trophy-tied.
Admission for tomorrow's game will be £6 adults, £4 concessions and £1 under 16s, while the replay - if required - will be staged on Tuesday at Eastwood Town.
AFC Telford are priced at 33-1 with Bet 365 to win this season's FA Trophy.
By James Garrison
