AFC Telford v Stockport: Shane Sutton anticipates entertaining clash

Both sides are going into the game on the back of defeats, writes Joe Edwards.

Telford were dealt their first loss of the campaign at Darlington last weekend, being downed 3-0, while the Hatters were defeated 2-0 by Boston United in front of more than 3,000 fans at Edgeley Park.

So they should both be going all out in an effort to pick up three points.

“It’s going to be a good game to watch,” said Sutton.

“Both teams are going to be going for it, looking to go out and get that win.

“We can’t really see teams coming here and beating us, unless we don’t stick to the process.

“We didn’t stick to the game-plan at Darlington so we’ve learned from that and all of us are really looking forward to getting back out there, at home.”

Supporters certainly got their money worth in the previous meeting between the two teams at the New Bucks Head.

It was the first home win of last season, coming at the sixth attempt.

John Marsden opened the scoring for Telford against his former club, but Matthew Warburton soon pulled the Stockport level.

Marcus Dinanga then put the Bucks back ahead but, again, the Hatters came up with a very quick response, through Bohan Dixon.

It was a nervy second period and Jordan Murphy had the deciding say by firing home to seal a much-welcome 3-2 triumph.

For tomorrow’s match, Telford have a lot of options.

Amari Morgan-Smith (knee) and Steph Morley (calf) have been struggling in recent weeks and are the only two real doubts.

Max Bramley, whose knee knock picked up at Blackwell Meadows is only minor, is one of three shot-stoppers at Gavin Cowan’s disposal.

Andy Wycherley impressed as a substitute last time out so is expected to be in the squad, although Sheridan Martinez is back at 100 per cent after dislocating a finger.

Daniel Udoh is Telford’s biggest attacking threat, having already chipped in with seven goals this campaign.

He should be partnered up top by Andre Brown, who has two to his name, while Adam Dawson could come into the midfield four – to provide some more pace and trickery. The one to watch for the visitors is Nyal Bell. Despite finding the net just once so far this term, the 22-year-old forward is highly rated.

That goal was a screamer in the 3-1 victory against Leamington two weeks ago.

A raw talent, his pace and power could well cause the Bucks backline some problems.

The word going around Greater Manchester is that Jim Gannon could really do with a win.

They are currently in 11th place and, having started the season off as favourites to win the title, fans are not pleased.

There have been question marks over both his recruitment and his tactics so, as Sutton said, they could come out firing – eager to ease the pressure on Gannon, who is now in his third season in charge.