Carter: AFC Telford can still win promotion

AFC Telford United chairman Lee Carter today aimed to silence the cynics, insisting: "We've got a great chance to win promotion and we have to pull together."

The Bucks have lost two of their last three games in Blue Square Bet North but remain well-placed to hold on to second position until the end of the season.

Eastwood are the current form team and climbed into the play-off places with a 4-2 win over champions elect Alfreton last night - but Carter insists the Bucks need to keep believing.

"It's a great achievement to be where we are currently, considering we were probably four or five weeks behind everyone else in their preparations," said the Bucks' supremo.

"Our manager Andy Sinton didn't start work until June 1 so we we're always up against it.

"My message to everyone is to enjoy it - now is not the time for panic, it's not the time for turning on each other or for cynicism.

"It does grate sometimes that, no matter what we do, there are some who have a pessimistic point of view.

"We have a fantastic opportunity and now is the time for pulling together and hopefully getting to May 15 (play-off final date) knowing we've all done our best.

"I'm hearing so much about Eastwood and what a very good team they are and what an excellent run they've been on," he added.

"But who are the only team who have taken a point off them in the last 14 matches? Us!"

Carter revealed that talks to extend Sinton's contract are going well.

The Telford chief is tied to the club until the end of next season but the Board are eager to extend the deal.

"They have all been amicable discussions," said Carter. "He's gone to think about a few things and I'm sure the forms will be signed by the end of the season."

By CHRIS HUDSON