Bucks boss Rob Smith

Boss Rob Smith has vowed to get stuttering AFC Telford United back on track, insisting: “Nobody could work harder.”

The Bucks are out of every cup competition this season and lost 3-1 at Farsley Celtic on Saturday to drop to 11th in the Blue Square North – nine points adrift of the play-off places.

Smith admits he is aware of criticism from some sections of the club’s support, but believes he can turn it around.

“When we won a cup last season (the Setanta Shield) I was the greatest thing ever and now there are people saying I haven’t got a clue,” Smith admitted.

“But people can say what they want – I’ll keep doing what I’m paid to do and that is doing my job and working hard.

“I can assure you I work harder than anyone else and hopefully that work brings rewards. If it doesn’t, it won’t be for lack of effort.

“I care passionately – I want a good career in football and I honestly believe in myself and Larry (assistant manager Chambers). I’d like to think we can ride through this and come out stronger the other side.” Telford introduced a trio of new signings on Saturday, Shrewsbury loanee Andre Gray paired up front with Damian Reeves while Sean Evans came in on the left wing.

All three made an impact, though Telford’s solitary goal came in bizarre circumstances – Farsley keeper Piotr Skiba inadvertently throwing the ball into his own net.

“The three new lads came in and gave us a spark going forward and we certainly looked more dangerous than we have, but then my defence lets me down,” said Smith.

“Sean Evans was excellent and has a hell of a future by the look of it. Damian Reeves was everything I expected, a real handful, and I thought Andre Gray did well.”

Leading scorer Andy Brown missed Saturday’s clash with a groin injury but Smith expects him to be fit to rejoin the squad for tomorrow evening’s clash at home to Alfreton Town.

l Troubled Chester’s game against Eastbourne Borough in the Blue Square Premier was abandoned after 75 minutes after an on-field protest from home supporters.

Chester were leading 3-2 at the time. They face expulsion from the league today over unpaid debts to Wrexham and Vauxhall Motors.