Rob Smith

Boss Rob Smith believes AFC Telford United will soon be climbing the Blue Square North if they maintain their high Shropshire Senior Cup standards.

The Bucks went down 2-1 in the final at home to rivals Shrewsbury Town at the New Bucks Head last night.

Smith was disappointed at the result but proud of his side’s efforts – which he sees as encouraging for their league prospects.

“It says everything that Shrewsbury put out a really strong side and we matched them,” he declared.

“We’re not getting our rewards but the be-all-and-end-all for us is the league, and I’m not just saying that because we lost.

“It would have been lovely to win the Shropshire Senior Cup again but the main thing is getting points in the league – and if we keep performing like that we will.

“I think everyone can appreciate the performances we are putting in at the moment and I can’t ask any more from our lads.”

Smith was also quick to thank Shrewsbury counterpart Paul Simpson for fielding a strong line-up, and saw Shropshire football as the big winner on the night.

“They’re full-time, two divisions above us and we can’t really compete with them,” the Bucks chief added.

“But I hope Paul Simpson appreciates the game we gave them, and I certainly appreciate the side he sent down because that’s much better for us than being up against a young side. Both sides were competitive and both sides were honest.”

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Telford honour four stars of the past this evening – with Les Wilson, George Jagger, Eddie Hogan and Neil Howarth being inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame.

Jagger, Hogan and Howarth will be present in person at the Legends Night at the Whitehouse Hotel, while the late Wilson will be represented by his family.

By CHRIS HUDSON