AFC Telford United boss Rob Smith believes rivals Barrow are rapidly emerging as the surprise favourites for the Blue Square North play-offs.The Cumbrians extended their unbeaten run to 14 as they recorded their fifth consecutive victory with a 1-0 win at Workington last night.

And that has put them firmly in the play-off mix, just five points behind the Bucks and still with a game in hand.

“They’re unstoppable at the moment and I’d say it’s two from four,” said Smith.

“I think Stalybridge and Harrogate are certs and it’s then between us, Nuneaton, Southport and Barrow for the other two spots.

“I think Barrow have got three out of their last four at home so they stand a very good chance.

“They’re probably the second-best side to Kettering in the league at the moment and, if they do get in there, they will start as favourites.”

In the other Blue Square North fixture last night, bottom side Leigh RMI beat Burscough 2-1, with the Linnets finishing the game with eight men.

That is significant for Telford as they travel to Burscough in a potentially crucial last game at the end of the month, and the red-carded trio – including keeper Tony McMillan – will all now be suspended for the hosts.

“They’ve slipped up a bit of late but I’m sure they won’t be doing us any favours, even with three players missing,” added Smith.

Meanwhile, Telford’s reserves lost 3-2 at Nuneaton last night in an eventful clash in the Central Conference League.

With regular reserves keeper Steve Taylor unavailable, the Bucks were unable to find a replacement at short notice and so put leading scorer Matty Lewis between the posts for the full 90 minutes.

Elliott Durrell and Matty Wood were the men on target for the visitors.

By Chris Hudson