Sinton challenges AFC Telford to perform against Harrogate

Boss Andy Sinton has challenged AFC Telford United to "perform on the big stage" - and seal second place in the Blue Square Bet North.

Tomorrow's final league game at home to Harrogate is a prelude to the play-offs and three crunch clashes that could take the Bucks back to the top tier of non-League football.

But Sinton wants their minds fully focussed on the Harrogate game, insisting it is important to finish up as runners-up to champions Alfreton and lay the groundwork for a potential play-off final at the New Bucks Head.

"I've said to the lads not to under-estimate what second could mean," said Sinton.

"If we were fortunate enough to get through the play-off semi-finals then I could see Telford rocking for the final.

"I don't know how many would be there but that would be something to look forward to.

"First we have a job to do tomorrow and we will go from there," he added.

"If we don't achieve it certainly won't be through a lack of hard work.

"For 98 per cent of the season the lads have performed on the big stage and I just want them to go and perform in four big games - including tomorrow."

Sinton has midfielder Richard Davies back in the squad and involved the former Walsall youngster in Wednesday's Shropshire Senior Cup final defeat to Shrewsbury Town.

A number of his fringe players also gave decent performances at the Greenhous Meadow but the Telford chief admitted that he is unlikely to consider resting first team regulars tomorrow to keep them fresh for the play-offs.

"You're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't," he said.

"If you tinker with the team and it goes against you for second place, people will say: 'What have you done that for?'

"If you go and win the game but pick up a couple of injuries people will say you should have rested a few.

"I think we're at a level where we have to play what we think is our best side, or as near to it as we can."

By CHRIS HUDSON