Steph Morley: Gavin Cowan's buzz has been key to Telford success

Cowan signed a new two-year contract at the New Bucks Head on the eve of his side’s latest National League North victory – a 3-1 success over Curzon Ashton.

Left-sided defender Morley, 31, was central to Telford’s 17th league win in 39 games this season by scoring his second and third goals of the season to hand the hosts a 2-0 lead. Former Tamworth man Morley stressed that, with Cowan at the helm, players will see AFC Telford United as an attractive option.

“The gaffer has been a massive part of this, his enthusiasm rubs off on the players no end,” said Morley. “I can’t see anyone wanting to leave what the gaffer has built here, we are like a family to be fair.

“I may have helped my case for a new deal with them two goals.

“Some lads come in Monday morning to do a bit extra, but everyone puts everything in and I think would want to stay for next year.

“The detail that goes in from the gaffer is class. It is him, Trains (Phil Trainer) and the backroom staff.

“It is run like a professional club, there is nothing closer out there to a professional club than Telford at the minute.”

The Bucks are seventh and occupy the final play-off spot with three games remaining. Rivals Blyth Spartans and Kidderminster are three and four points further back, respectively.

Telford’s remaining fixtures are against three sides currently mid-table and below.

A play-off position is in their hands but Morley insists the Bucks can relax and play with a freedom in their remaining games, as other clubs feel Cowan’s men are punching above their weight.

“We don’t feel any pressure now going forward because everyone outside Telford thinks we are over achieving,” Morley added.

“We believe we can go and get in the play-offs and hopefully get promoted.”

The ex-Brackley and Leamington man has made 23 appearances for Telford since joining last summer. Morley, who has nursed a couple of knocks this term, has been battling with the more attack-minded Brendon Daniels for the left wing-back spot.

He added: “We have me and Brendon (Daniels) on the left and he has class at this level, his left foot is almost as good as mine!”