Shropshire Star

AFC Telford try to storm Salford City stronghold

Larry Chambers insists AFC Telford United are under no illusions about the size of the challenge that awaits them in Salford City.

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The Bucks – who are searching for a goalkeeper following Matt Urwin's hip injury – have been in good form over the last couple of weeks, picking up four points from a possible six,

writes Joe Edwards.

Salford, though, are on a stunning run at Moor Lane – their one and only National League North loss on home soil being on October 22 – and sit second in the table.

Owned by five members of Manchester United's Class of '92 – Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Gary and Phil Neville – they beat the Bucks 2-0 in the reverse fixture earlier this term and boast one of the strongest squads in the division.

"They were one of the pre-season favourites for promotion and they have been very strong," said assistant boss Chambers.

"They are a on a good run. They had a bit of of a blip around six weeks ago but they have overcame that and their home form is very good as well.

Salford – who were brought to the attention of football fans across the country with BBC documentary, The Class of '92: Out of Their League – have two former Bucks in their side, striker Mike Phenix and centre-half Simon Grand.

Both were in the Telford side that won promotion to the Conference in the 2013/14 season.

Grand was the captain of that side, and is the skipper of the Ammies – who recently thrashed league leaders AFC Fylde 5-0.

Telford have won just one league game on the road this term, and Chambers said: "Of course they will be looking to cement their place in the play-offs and it will be difficult as they are a strong, physical side – we know that. We are under no illusions. It will be very tough."

The Bucks are crossing their fingers that full-back Luke Higham – who has a bruised ankle – will be available for the game.

Josh Wilson – who missed the 1-0 win against Tamworth last weekend because of a virus – has trained this week and is set to return to the squad.

On the current shape of the squad, Chambers added: "I think, right from the start of the season, we didn't have a problem defensively.

"The midfield lacked a little bit of creativity but that has got better and the attack has improved as well. It is a good squad."

Meanwhile, defender Paul McCone is aware of the fight he has to keep hold of his place.

The man who got the winner against the Lambs, he has been immense alongside skipper Luca Havern but is aware that if either of them slip up, the more than capable Ben Bailey is ready to step in.

"The gaffer (Rob Smith) has said to us, you can really change the game with the subs we have," said McCone.

"That was not the case at the start of the new year but now there are players who can come on to offer an attacking threat, and ones who can come and help steady things.

"It is good for us to have those options and it keeps us all on our toes."

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