Salford City v AFC Telford: We can down the leaders, says Rob Edwards

The Bucks head to the Class of ‘92-owned National League North table-toppers tomorrow, writes Joe Edwards.

The Ammies are very much the favourites to win this one.

They are five points clear at the top while Telford are playing catch-up, following a few postponements, down in 16th

Telford will be taking heart from the fact Salford have been a little up and down as of late – winning two, drawing two and losing two of their last six games.

They did beat Darlington 2-1 on Wednesday night, though, to extend their lead at the top.

“Winning on Wednesday, of course, helps their confidence,” said Edwards.

“All teams go through a bit of a tough period but they got the win on Wednesday. It’s a tough game.

“Not many people – except from us as staff and all of the players here – believe that we can go there and get something.

“So we go up there without any pressure.

“They’ve beaten almost everyone in this division, but I believe we can beat anyone – when we are at it.

“The lads can do it, we have the quality here to do it.”

Edwards’ charges took on the Ammies at the New Bucks Head back in August.

Jake Beesley and former Bucks striker Mike Phenix scored in a 2-0 win for the visitors.

The Telford chief does not want his players to focus on that, though, or the fact they have struggled for goals as of late – scoring in just one of their last four fixtures.

“The pressure is off – go out there and enjoy it,” said Edwards.

“These are the games that you want to be playing, against the big teams.

“Salford City are a big team now, we’re looking forward to it.”

As well as Phenix, the likes of ex-Blackpool forward Jack Redshaw and former Gateshead defender Liam Hogan have stood out for Salford this campaign.

Marcus Dinanga and Elliot Newby have been the key players for Telford, who have made a couple of loan signings this week.

Teenage goalkeeper Ryan Schofield has joined until the end of this term from Premier League side Huddersfield Town.

The 18-year-old helped England U20s win the Toulon Tournament in the summer – making a crucial penalty shootout save in the final victory against the Ivory Coast – and went on the Terriers’ trip to Austria during pre-season.

Centre-half Ryan Leak has also arrived until the end of the season, from Wolves.

The 19-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan at The New Saints.

Those are just two of the many options Edwards has at his disposal for this encounter.

There are no injury worries and Edwards has praised the work of club physio Jake Roe.

“At the moment, they’re all fit and available,” he added.

“Jake Roe is doing a fantastic job, keeping everybody here in tip-top shape.

“There are a lot of options and decisions to make as everyone is fit and ready to go.”