AFC Telford v Kidderminster Harriers: Gavin Cowan is anticipating reinvigorated support

The Telford chief feels the summer was a perfect opportunity for the Bucks faithful to recharge ahead of backing their side to the hilt again.

Cowan’s men are aiming to respond to Saturday’s opening-day disappointment at Kettering in National North by getting one over Kidderminster Harriers tonight.

The boss hopes Telford fans will bring the enthusiasm that last season pushed his side to within inches of the play-offs and a Wembley FA Trophy final date.

“I imagine supporters are still revelling in a brilliant season we had and are hoping for more of the same,” said Cowan. “They’ll be eager to get going and I hope they will come out in their droves.

“They made the difference for us last year because of how things went on the pitch and that’s where we are as a football club.

“We want them to support us throughout the season regardless of results. They can be the difference and will want to go again.

“I’ve spoke about my players reinvigorating for this season, but the fans have had to as well, so they can play their part.”

Cowan was full of praise for his Telford players’ performance at Latimer Park where he felt a questionable late decision from the officials – as well as general inconsistency from the man in the middle – cost his side at least a point in Northamptonshire. But he has called for his side to be more ruthless in both penalty boxes and will not stand for similar wastefulness.

The boss, who has no fresh injury concerns from the weekend’s setback, revealed he has a seven-match points target to start the campaign, which takes Telford to the end of August.

“It’s a long-old season and we’re not down after one game where we put in a decent performance,” he said.

“We’ve got a points target for the first seven games and we’ll try to meet that.

“I’ve always done that. We’ve got long-term plans and medium ones, but I think it’s important as it motivates players. You can’t walk down the road with no idea where you’ll end up.

“It put us behind (on the target) but it’s nothing we can’t catch up. We can over-subscribe with the targets.”

Tonight’s visitors Kidderminster, under the guidance of new boss John Pemberton, come all the way up the A442 having drawn their opener at home to Leamington.

“They’re a team that are always difficult to play against and I expect more of the same from them,” said Cowan.

Likely line-up: Addai, White, Sutton (c), Streete, Morley, Deeney, Walker, Knights, Lait, Brown, Williams.