Shropshire Star

Steve Kittrick targets progress for Telford

AFC Telford United Steve Kittrick wants "more of the same" from his rejuvenated Bucks when they travel to AFC Fylde in the FA Trophy tomorrow.

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Kittrick's team, who are bottom of the Conference Premier, will face the Conference North leaders in the second round at Kellamergh Park.

With just one league place separating the teams, he is expecting a tough test against The Coasters.

But his players will enter the game unbeaten in their last four matches, and he said: "It will be a good challenge for us, but it will be a test for them as well.

"If they win their league they will be in the Conference Premier next year, so it will be a yardstick for them. That makes them a dangerous opponent.

"But my message to the players is just to keep doing what we have been doing. Play in the right areas, be organised and enjoy it.

"It is a bit of respite from the league and it is a competition that both sides will want to do well in."

Victory would take the Bucks to within three wins of Wembley, but Kittrick is refusing to look too far ahead.

He is, however, adamant the chance to step closer to playing at the 'Home of Football' will provide extra incentive for his players.

He said: "It is everybody's dream. It is an old cliché but it is a dream to play at Wembley. We haven't got to get ahead of ourselves.

"We have got a tough job to do tomorrow, but if we get through we are into the last 16."

Utility man Kristian Platt, who can play as both a defender and a midfielder, is to return from a hamstring injury..

New signing Ben McLaughlin, who is on loan from Everton, goes straight into the squad while midfielder Charlie Barnett should also be available after sickness.

Josh Hancock will miss the game with a knee injury while new signings Jack Rea and Kyle Dixon are cup-tied.

Meanwhile, full-back Wes Baynes' loan at Colwyn Bay has been extended to the end of the season.