AFC Telford braced for a different challenge
Boss Gavin Cowan has warned AFC Telford United to expect a massively different test as they host Ashton United tomorrow.
The Bucks take on the National League North newcomers, looking to extend their perfect record at the New Bucks Head.
Ashton won the Northern Premier play-offs last term and have caught Cowan’s eye.
“They’re a real footballing team,” he said on the Robins, who have picked up seven points from as many games.
“I’ve been really impressed with them actually, for the way they go about things.
“They’re probably the complete opposite to Leamington, they just want to get the ball down and play football, so it’s a completely different task for us.
“I look forward to having them as a test and hopefully we can get the three points against them.”
Cowan has plenty of options for the clash. The only real injury worry for Telford is Steph Morley, who has been dealing with a calf problem for several weeks.
“It seems everybody other than Steph is available,” said Cowan.
“Steph might even be available by the point.
“We’re looking good on that front and we’re really excited to get back to the New Bucks Head.”
Meanwhile, Cowan is delighted with the ‘fluency’ and strength-in-depth of his midfield.
Jon Royle and Adam Dawson came into the midfield four for Monday’s 2-2 draw at Leamington and impressed, with Dawson getting on the scoresheet.
James McQuilkin dropped out but scored in the 3-1 victory against Chester last Saturday and could well return to the starting line-up for Ashton.
Ellis Deeney, Henry Cowans and Darryl Knights are the others who have turned a fair few heads with their displays in the middle of the park.
“We approached it slightly differently on Monday, but you can just see the fluency in what we do,” added Cowan.
“That’s why I recruited them, really. I knew we’d have to be adaptive and we’d have to be fluent so it’s good that we can do that.
“I’m very particular, I want all the lads to know their jobs – in and out of possession.
“They have a responsibility to make sure that if they’re in the team, or not in the team, they’re up to date with everything that is going on. I’m really pleased with them.”
