Larry Chambers believes AFC Telford United have what it takes to retain the Shropshire Senior Cup in tonight’s big clash with Shrewsbury Town.

It is only three-and-a-half months since Telford won the competition in a penalty shoot-out at the Prostar Stadium in the delayed 2008 final.

And assistant manager Chambers is looking forward to tonight’s renewal at the New Bucks Head – which now looks certain to go ahead despite earlier weather worries.

“We were delighted to be the first Telford team in 16 years to win the cup back in the summer and it’s a good opportunity to try and do it again tonight,” said Chambers.

“It’s important for us that the game is on because, after Saturday’s match was called off, we don’t want too long a period of inactivity.

“It’s nice to have something at stake and we’ll give it a go against what should be a good Shrewsbury team.

“Paul Simpson (the Town boss) has made it clear that he’s sending a strong team and he hasn’t got as massive squad so whatever line-up he selects will include a large number of first team players.”

Telford will assess injury doubts Andy Brown (groin), Chris Nurse (hamstring) and Carl Rodgers (foot) this evening before selecting a side, while loanee Gavin Hurren is ruled out through suspension.

Rodgers is unlikely to feature, with the Bucks having one eye on Saturday’s FA Trophy clash at Stalybridge.

Another man who definitely won’t be playing this evening is left-back Sean Newton, who is on the continent with the England ‘C’ squad.

Newton, 20, is hoping to be selected in boss Paul Fairclough’s side for the international friendly with Poland under-23s.

Telford agreed to release Newton to play in the game, with Chambers insisting: “It’s a great opportunity for him and there was no problem letting him go.

“We were actually a little disappointed Lee Vaughan wasn’t called up again, because we understand he did well in the last game (away in Hungary).”

By CHRIS HUDSON