Rob Smith has summed up the task his AFC Telford United side face at Hyde in tomorrow’s Blue Square North clash by declaring: “All their players scare me.”

The Telford chief expects the Tigers to be serious promotion contenders this season and is preparing his side for their toughest game so far.

The task has been made harder by an injury to in-form goalkeeper Ryan Young and a one-match suspension for key wing-back Lee Vaughan.

“Without a shadow of a doubt it’s the toughest game we’ve had this season, and I include Southport in that,” said Smith, whose side is still unbeaten.

“Looking at the reports we’ve had done on them it frightens you. Every player scares you a little bit.

“They’ve got an abundance of riches up front, bags of experience at the back and quality in the middle of the park.

“They’ve got to fancy themselves to be up there this season. At home they’ve been demolishing teams.”

Smith is also urging the supporters to play their part at Hyde’s Ewen Fields, insisting a vocal support could make a big difference.

“We’re going to have to be at our best mentally,” he added. “We need everything tomorrow. We need our supporters to be at their loudest as every little bit will help.”

Meanwhile, Young has definitely been ruled out for the trip to Hyde due to the knee injury he sustained during Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Alfreton. It means Steve Taylor, who completed the formalities of his registration last night, will deputise in his place.

“The swelling is far too much and he’s got no flexibility in his leg at all,” said Smith. “Steve will play and we’ve got absolute confidence in him.”

Midfielder Carl Rodgers is set to play, even though he is struggling with a groin strain.

Wing-back Matty Wood, who has graduated from the youth team this season, is to join West Midlands League side Bridgnorth Town for a month. He goes straight into their squad for tomorrow’s FA Vase game with New Mills.

By Chris Hudson