Kevin Wilkin explains why it is a big week for AFC Telford United
AFC Telford United boss Kevin Wilkin believes his side have two ‘massive games’ coming up against Stamford and Kettering Town.
The Bucks sit seventh in the Southern Central Premier, level on points with fifth-placed Stratford Town and two points off their next two opponents.
Telford travel to third-placed Stamford this weekend before hosting league leaders Kettering in midweek, and Wilkin needs no reminding of the importance of these next two fixtures.
“They’re massive games,” he admitted. "Kettering have obviously made a lot of headlines this season, and Stamford are in and around it themselves, so they are two really big games.”
Wilkin continued: “This is where we want to be, we want to be at the top end of the league if possible and play in these big games because they should be the most enjoyable.
“It’s what we play the game for, and I think we have enough players that know how important it is to enjoy this type of fixture.”
Telford had a mixed record against the top sides last season, and the Bucks boss explained how crucial the fine margins can be in these clashes.
“They can be quite close affairs, and keeping clean sheets is crucial in games like this,” Wilkin said. “It’s about matching and then showing greater levels of concentration than the opposition, as well as greater technical ability and fitness.
“If we achieve on all of those fronts, like a stronger mental attitude too, the chances are you’ll come out with a positive result.
“Some players do well in certain areas, others do well in another, and it’s just about all of that coming together at the right time to see us come out successful.”
