Andy Sinton calls for AFC Telford reality check

AFC Telford United boss Andy Sinton has called for a reality check from the Bucks fans – as the club prepare for three home games in seven days.

Away draws at relegation rivals Lincoln City and Alfreton Town had sparked discontent among sections of the Telford support, but Sinton is urging them to remain realistic and get behind the side.

"People have got to understand that we're now competing in what is effectively the fifth tier of the professional leagues," said the Bucks boss.

• Listen to this week's football podcast

"To survive at this level as a part-time club is really good achievement and if we can consolidate we can look to push on.

"This league is a lot, lot tougher than it used to be, than it has ever been. The club has never been in a better position, maybe not financially, but before there was one man pumping a lot of money into the club.

"When we were last in this league eight or nine years ago we never got above mid-table and it was a part-time league.

"Now there are a lot of ex-League clubs in here. We are competing with full-time clubs. There are three part-time clubs in this league and we happen to be one of them. You are at a serious disadvantage before you kick a ball.

"I think most people at the start of the season would just want us to stay up and I am confident that we will do that."

"We need everyone to stay with us. The club needs everyone pulling in the same direction and if we can do that we'll be OK."

See also:

• Southport offer the example to Andy Sinton

• Shane Killock is desperate to be fit for AFC Telford run

• Ryan Valentine sorry for red card