AFC Telford United are revelling in the thrill of the chase – with assistant manager Larry Chambers enjoying the role of hunter rather than hunted.The Bucks are in the thick of the Blue Square North play-off race – currently lying in second place, six points behind leaders Kettering.

Chambers is happy to be in that position rather than being the front-runners, as they were last year in the UniBond League premier division.

Telford led by 10 points at one stage but buckled during the run-in, eventually finishing third and recovering to win the play-offs.

“This time last year we were being chased and we found it uncomfortable, to be honest,” said Chambers.

“We’re finding it easier to be the ones doing the chasing now and we’ve got a stronger squad so we’re better equipped.

“We’re not looking too far ahead, though. I’ve heard people talking about our tough run-in but there’s no point worrying about that if we don’t win the games ahead of that.

“All we can do is worry about the next game and that will always be our approach.”

That next game sees Telford off to Alfreton on Saturday to face a side managed by Nicky Laws, who is one of Chambers’ closest friends in football.

“Myself and Rob (Smith, manager) know Nicky Laws and he’s an honest, genuine guy and his teams are the same,” the Bucks No 2 added.

“I speak to him every week to 10 days or so, and it doesn’t matter what the game or what his team has to play for, he just wants to win.

“He’s always looking to improve his side and there are not many teams who go there and get something.”

Telford will be training tonight, with Chambers hopeful that strikers Michael Husbands and Luke Reynolds will both be declared fit enough to join the squad for this weekend’s clash.