Meredith back in business

James Meredith today handed AFC Telford United a massive play-off boost – as Rob Smith's men prepare to challenge the champions of Tamworth tomorrow.

There had been fears that Meredith, one of the Bucks' most consistent performers since arriving on loan from Shrewsbury, would miss the Blue Square North play-offs after sustaining a nose injury in Tuesday's victory over Burscough.

But the young Australian now looks set to be available for Wednesday's semi-final first leg.

"It looks like James is going to be okay for the play-offs which would be great news for us," said Smith.

"He's going to put back any operation he requires until after the end of the season."

Meredith will be rested for tomorrow's visit of champions Tamworth for the final game of the regular season.

The game poses a conundrum for Smith and assistant manager Larry Chambers as they balance the desire to win the game in an attempt to climb further up the table with the need to remain free of any fresh injuries.

The Bucks currently lie fifth in the table but will move into fourth in the table, guaranteeing home advantage for the second leg of the semi-final, with a victory tomorrow and a slip for Southport at Farsley Celtic.

"There is a dilemma," admitted Smith, who will make a late decision on which players he will rest alongside Meredith with Wednesday in mind.

"We want to win the game but we will not take any risk to compromise the fitness of any of the lads.

"We can finish anywhere between third and fifth but the main thing is that we are in the play-offs. If we can get home advantage for the second leg of the semi-final and maybe a final then that would be an added bonus."

Captain Stuart Whitehead and midfielder Jon Adams will both play some part tomorrow as they return from injury absences, while youth teamer Scott Embury will also be included in the squad.

Jamie Vermglio is also expected to play some part while key striker Andy Brown remains on course to be fit for the play-offs.

By JAMES GARRISON