AFC Telford United’s strength in depth proved the difference as they sealed a deserved victory in their latest pre-season friendly at Welsh Premier outfit Aberystwyth Town.

The Bucks took a smaller squad of just 17 players to the Cambrian coast as they step up their preparations for the big kick-off on August 13.

And they were given a good test by an Aberystwyth squad who had thrashed a young Tranmere Rovers XI 7-0 the previous evening.

The Bucks took a 20th minute lead when Nathan Rooney played a defence-splitting pass for Adam Proudlock, who made no mistake with a cool finish.

But the Black and Greens rallied – hitting the bar through Lewis Codling on 22 minutes.

And the hosts drew level just five minutes later when trialist Geoff Kellaway, a former Aberystwyth player hoping to earn a return to the club after a spell in Australia with Melbourne Victory, played a one-two with Ricky Evans and got in behind Telford full-back Will Salmon to score.

The Bucks made five changes early in the second half and the fresh legs made a big difference as Telford finally started to dominate proceedings.

It was two of the replacements who combined to restore the visitors’ lead on 77 minutes, Ryan Valentine whipping in a cross for Jon Adams, who had made a darting run through the middle and volleyed home from close range.

The third goal came 10 minutes from time, Telford winning a penalty when Jordan Johnson was scythed down in the box.

Alex Meechan stepped up to take the spot-kick and confidently smashed it past keeper Steve Cann.

“It was a good all-round performance but there’s still a lot more to come from the lads,” said assistant manager Darren Read.

“I have to thank the fantastic travelling Telford fans too – they made an away game feel more like a home game.”

AFC TELFORD LINE-UP: Young, Salmon, Newton (Valentine), Davies (Adams), Whitehead, Preston, J Reid (King), Trainer (Pitt), Meechan, Proudlock (Johnson), Rooney. Sub not used: Evans.

ATTENDANCE: 384

By CHRIS HUDSON