AFC Telford United’s loyal supporters have been urged to buy into the club’s promotion dream – by backing the team in numbers for the big run-in.

Boss Andy Sinton believes the fans can give his side a decisive edge as the race for the Blue Square Bet North title reaches boiling point.

Favourites Alfreton went down 3-2 at Boston last night while, in a further boost for the Bucks, leaders Nuneaton could only draw 0-0 at home to Gloucester.

“We’re not a Man United or a Chelsea – we’re Telford and we’re doing very well so I hope people will latch on to that,” said Sinton.

“The crowd have been right behind the boys. They have been terrific all season and they can play a big, big part.

“They really get behind us at home and when they travel in numbers they make the away games feel like a home game.

“You hear the phrase the 12th man and that is how we see our fans – they make it harder for teams to come to our place and help us away from home,” he added.

“To all those supporters who come in their numbers and spend their money I say thanks, and keep coming.

“Hopefully we’ll get our rewards together in a couple of months’ time.”

Meanwhile, the Telford chief has admitted he is expecting to lose Mansfield defender Mark Preece when his one-month loan reaches its end next week.

Preece has impressed in the last three victories. But Mansfield – who are still going for Wembley glory in the FA Trophy – are likely to take the 23-year-old back to Field Mill.

“The last time I spoke to Mansfield they were suggesting that they would be recalling him.”

By CHRIS HUDSON