Sinton sure AFC Telford can avoid drop

Andy Sinton today delivered an upbeat New Year message on the eve of AFC Telford United's derby day crunch at Wrexham, declaring: "Stick together and we will be fine."

The Bucks head to the Racecourse for part two of their daunting double-header against the Blue Square Bet Premier table-toppers locked in a battle for survival in their first season back in the top flight of non-League football.

A three point buffer currently separates Telford from the bottom four.

And, despite a run of just one victory in just 14 games, boss Sinton remains convinced his side can steer clear of trouble.

"Its been a fantastic year and the fact we are playing Wrexham twice in a week show how far we have come," he said.

"The challenge is a big one but we are in there competing and fighting.

"We need everyone to stick together on and off the pitch. If we do that, we will be okay."

Despite suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Wrexham on Boxing Day, Sinton is relishing starting the 2012 programme with another crack at the leaders.

"I didn't think there was much in the game," he added.

"A couple of decisions went against us and we hit the woodwork and had one off the line.

"It will be a big test, we know that, but we are up for the challenge."

Sinton is hoping central defenders Dan Preston and Stuart Whitehead recover from a knock to the head and back problems respectively.

The Bucks boss was keen to see both receive the all clear from the medical staff to return to training today.

Midfielder Phil Trainer is suspended after his red card against the Dragons on Boxing Day, but it is understood Richard Davies will be available because he is one short of a 10th booking which would trigger a two-game suspension.