AFC Telford United stretched their unbeaten run to nine games with a 2-0 win over Burscough, but that didn’t stop boss Rob Smith declaring: “We got it wrong.”

Second half goals from Andy Brown and debutant Danny Carey-Bertram set up an ultimately comprehensive victory at Victoria Park. 

The result elevates Telford back into the Blue Square North play-off places, but Smith felt they made life harder than it should have been because of a flawed team selection.

“We needed it, and that was a must-win game for me but – again – I thought we made hard work of it,” he said. 

“I think we got it wrong, team selection-wise. We went for height, we wanted to be physical and we thought we’d cause them all sorts of trouble off set-pieces. 

“We picked a big, strong team but it never worked until we put some quality on the pitch in the second half. 

“There’s too many players in our squad who are knocking on the door but when they do come in, don’t do it. I’ll hold my hands up and say we didn’t get it right at all.” 

Smith was, though, a lot happier as he reflected on the performances of his two new signings. 

Striker Carey-Bertram came off the bench to score, while Shrewsbury loan man James Meredith got a full 90 minutes. 

“Danny came on and made all the difference,” said Smith. “You can see what he’s all about – he’s a quality player. 

“He’s comfortable on the ball, he brings people into play and he’s got goals in him. He’s a very exciting signing for us. 

“James did well and he showed a lot of energy getting up and down. 

“He was shattered by the end but he hasn’t played a lot of football and it was an excellent debut. I was really pleased with both of them.” 

Defender Indy Khela was helped off the pitch just before the end with what looked like a badly dislocated finger.

By CHRIS HUDSON