Boss frustrated as AFC Telford United’s winning wait goes on

Boss Kevin Wilkin admitted frustration after AFC Telford United surrendered a lead for the second successive game to remain without a National League North win.

Telford were forced to settle for a point against Hednesford Town on Saturday after Matty Stenson’s third goal of the season put them ahead in the 65th minute.

But their advantage lasted less than 10 minutes as Jai Curran-Nicholls headed the visitors level. Both sides remain searching for their first victory of the season, with Telford sitting 22nd with two points after their opening four games.

“Both (teams) were searching for a first win, which can be tough, but we need to get over that,” boss Wilkin said.

“The fact we’ve taken the lead in two games now and not closed the games out and taken all three points is a little bit disappointing, but the lads are working hard.

“I think we've got to manage the ball better at times there, and we've gone back to front more times than I'd be happy with.”

Hednesford arrived at the New Bucks Head after back-to-back promotions, with their wealthy owners overseeing a major summer overhaul as the club went full-time in pursuit of a third successive promotion.

Wilkin felt his Telford side had matched their expensively assembled opponents.

“When you get your noses in front, as we have, and to not close the game out, then I’d be disappointed,” he continued.

“But you look at Hednesford, obviously, they’re a wealthy club, and they’re spending strong money on some good players. When you get them as close as we did, yeah, naturally I’d be disappointed that we haven't won that game.”

The contest was a scrappy affair, with chances at a premium and neither side able to exert sustained control.

Telford were also without injured quartet Jamie Meddows, Jordan Cranston, Charlie Williams and Jaiden White, limiting Wilkin’s options from the bench.

“We’re more than capable of managing the ball and passing through the teams and through the lines,” Wilkin said.

“When you give the ball back as much as we have, and certainly today, you are going to find situations difficult.

“We’re a little bit limited with numbers today and where we can make positive changes…it’s quite tough, if I’m being honest.

“With four big players out for us, yeah, it’s not easy, but like I say, the lads are working hard and having a go. Hopefully, as we go deeper into the season, we will find a little bit more cohesion.”