Smith's confident of Bucks chances

AFC Telford United are tonight looking to bounce back from their first defeat of the season, with boss Rob Smith insisting: "There's nothing in this division to fear."

The Bucks went down 1-0 at Droylsden on Saturday, and - given their recent form - tonight's long trip to early Blue Square North high-fliers Harrogate hardly appears to be an inviting prospect.

Telford dropped to fifth place as a result of Droylsden's 1-1 draw with Workington last night, while leaders Southport extended their advantage thanks to an injury-time equaliser at Hinckley.

"I saw Southport last night and, once we get going, I still maintain there's nothing for us to fear," Smith declared.

"We've got the opportunity to go second tonight and it's one we want to take.

"Harrogate have won their three games at home and only conceded one goal and the reports are that they are playing some good stuff at the moment.

"It's a horrible Tuesday night so you wouldn't think it's ideal for us right now, but I actually revel in this sort of situation.

"A criticism levelled against us last year was that we always seemed to suffer narrow defeats to the teams at the top, but I'm hoping the squad is more resilient this year and we can prove that tonight."

Smith has Simon Forsdick back in his squad for Harrogate, the left wing-back poised to complete his return from a summer knee operation.

Forsdick played twice for Nuneaton Town last week and also turned out for Bloxwich in the West Midlands League on Saturday, and Smith now believes he is fully fit.

Centre-back Asa Charlton is also close, and will turn out for Stourbridge in their BGB Southern League clash at Chippenham tonight.

Hosts Harrogate could give a debut to 19-year-old defender Shane Killock, who has signed on a one-month loan from League One side Huddersfield.