Skipper Ian Sharps insists Shrewsbury Town will be going all out to sink Hereford United tomorrow – in order to put smiles on the faces of their supporters.

Centre-back Sharps knows the value of victory in big local games, pointing to his memories of watching Merseyside derbies as a source of motivation.

“I’m a Liverpool fan, I watched the derby with Everton a few times and it’s a sad weekend when you don’t win those matches,” he said.

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“You want the bragging rights, you want to be able to go into the pub or to work on Monday with a big smile on your face.

“The majority of our lads live in and around Shrewsbury and we know what this game means to the fans.

“We take that on board and hope to produce a performance worthy of them.

“It’s a bit of a cup final for Hereford, and I’m sure their crowd will be up for it, but so will we,” he added.

“I hear there are quite big numbers going down, so it will be a good atmosphere there.”

Sharps also wants to see Town raise their game away from home.

Shrewsbury are unbeaten at the Greenhous Meadow this season but their results on their travels have been more mixed.

“We haven’t played too well away from home recently and it’s something we need to put right,” said the club captain.

“Last year we put in a really professional performance and came away with a win – we want to do something similar this year.

“We’ve proved all year we can play well at home and beat the best teams but away from home we’ve come unstuck now and again.”

See also:

• Graham Turner wary of Shrewsbury Town derby dangers
• Graham Turner calls for Shrewsbury Town fan power
• Chairman hails Shrewsbury Town players and fans