Amari Morgan-Smith wants more after AFC Telford's winning start

The 29-year-old striker netted in the second half to give the Bucks an opening day win against Southport on Saturday.

On getting off the mark at the first attempt, he said: “It’s massive. I think, in the back of your head, you’re always trying to do that. I wanted to get off the mark in pre-season and take it into the first game of the season, and it’s nice to have done that.

“You have to keep sharp in your head, mentally, and tell yourself you will score.

“On Saturday, I thought that I’d get one chance and that it’d be crucial – and it paid off.”

Morgan-Smith joined Telford from National League North rivals York City in February, on an 18-month deal.

He ended last campaign with three goals in 14 appearances for the Bucks, following four in 28 for York, and scored against Ellesmere Rangers and Shrewsbury Town over pre-season.

Formerly of Luton Town, Oldham Athletic and Cheltenham Town, he started up top alongside Daniel Udoh against the Sandgrounders and has Andre Brown breathing down his neck.

Morgan-Smith, who lives in Telford, welcomes the competition and is hoping to put in another sharp display at another old club, Kidderminster Harriers, tomorrow night.

“We’re blessed in that department. It’s good, it’ll keep me on my toes,” he said.

“If you look around the country, you’ll see sides with three or four good strikers.

“It’s important to have that and I’ll be chomping at the bit to score as many goals as possible.

“I won’t be resting on my laurels. I’ll keep working hard and look to take it into Tuesday night.”

Morgan-Smith took the time to praise right-back Ross White for setting up his goal.

The Bucks’ No.9 was picked out superbly by White and he then took a touch before coolly poking home from close range.

“He’s massive. He’s one of those players I wouldn’t want to play against,” said Morgan-Smith on White, who won players’ player of the season last term.

“You know what you’re going to get from him and it was nice to see him in that area, getting balls into the box for me and Dan.

“That could be a nice combination from that right-hand side and hopefully I can get on the end of many more this season.”