Boss Andy Sinton has called on AFC Telford United to be more ruthless as they go in search of their first goals of 2011 at Stafford Rangers tonight.

The Bucks have begun the New Year with two 0-0 draws, including a disappointing stalemate at home to Stafford on January 1.

But those results have extended their unbeaten run to eight, having won their last six games of 2010.

But Sinton knows his side cannot afford to lose too much ground on the top two in the Blue Square Bet North, Alfreton and Guiseley.

And he is expecting another difficult evening against Tim Flowers’ struggling Rangers side.

“Stafford are fighting for their lives and they’re not giving much away, as they showed against us,” said Sinton.

“We’re going to have to be at our best to go there and get a result.

“Make no bones about it, this will be one of our toughest games of the season.

“I’m sure we will create chances and hopefully we can be more ruthless than we have been of late.”

Telford are likely to travel tonight with the same squad that played out an entertaining 0-0 draw at Nuneaton on January 3, with midfielder Courtney Pitt still sidelined by an ankle injury.

Stafford’s squad has been boosted since New Year’s Day by the addition of former Telford winger Danny Edwards.

He is one of three ex-Bucks in the Rangers ranks, alongside Martyn Naylor and Tyree Clarke.

Meanwhile, Telford should finally discover the identity of their opponents in the second round of the FA Trophy tonight.

Eastwood host Rushden & Diamonds in a much-delayed first round replay this evening — with Telford due to face the winners at the New Bucks Head on Saturday.

By CHRIS HUDSON