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Senior rivals to try again in semi
Thursday 31st July 2008, 11:25AM BST.
Bridgnorth Town are aiming to “do a Market Drayton” and push their more illustrious county neighbours all the way in tonight’s re-arranged Shropshire Senior Cup semi-final.
See also: Bucks match abandoned – photos
The Crown Meadow men return to the New Bucks Head for a second go at their last four clash with AFC Telford United after the first match was washed out by an electrical storm on Monday.
Heavy rain was forecast again for this afternoon and early evening, but Telford chairman Lee Carter remains confident that the game will go ahead.
The Bucks start as clear favourites, but Bridgnorth can take heart from the example of Drayton.
The north Shropshire side, who defeated Telford at this stage last year, were beaten 3-2 in a thriller at League Two Shrewsbury’s Prostar Stadium on Monday.But the Midland Alliance minnows led twice and only finally succumbed to an injury-time winner for the hosts.
“Didn’t Drayton do well, and credit where it’s due,” said Bridgnorth’s assistant manager Bob Jones, whose side were promoted to the same level as Drayton at the end of last season.
“I wasn’t overly surprised, to be honest, because Drayton aren’t a bad side.
“We look at that, though, and we think there’s no reason why we can’t go and do something similar.
“I’m not saying we’re going to beat Telford, but we’ll compete and do our best – that’s all we can ask.
“Drayton’s result has been a lift to everyone and it shows how strong the league we’re going into is.
“The main thing is that we don’t let ourselves down. Some players freeze and others love it – but I think our lads will relish the opportunity.”
Telford boss Rob Smith has the same squad that was available for the original tie on Monday and insists they will not take the Bridgnorth threat lightly.
“We know what teams at this level can do,” he said. “We saw it first hand last season.”
“We’ve prepared properly for tonight.”
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