No room for slips is Bucks message

AFC Telford have been warned they have no margin for error in the Blue Square North run-in ahead of tomorrow's play-off crunch with Stalybridge Celtic.

The Bucks, who today had still not given up hope of introducing another new face for tomorrow, begin the weekend in the final play-off berth in the table.

But they are under major pressure from the chasing pack - most notably Droylsden, Eastwood and Stalybridge Celtic, who all have games in hand.

Telford are two points clear of Stalybridge ahead of the New Bucks Head clash, but the Manchester side have played five games less.

"It is a cliche but it's a real six-pointer because, not only can we get three points, we can also stop Stalybridge getting three points as well," said assistant manager Larry Chambers, who is eyeing a fast start from his side tomorrow.

"If we can get the result we can go five points clear. They would have five games in hand but they have some tough games coming up.

"We have got seven huge games left and there is no margin for error.

"We have had a helping hand over the last four or five weeks because teams around us haven't gone a consistent run and with the Farsley situation as well.

"The important thing now is that we look after ourselves."

Chambers and manager Rob Smith will make a late decision on forward Steve Thompson who is battling to recover from a hamstring problem.

"He is 50-50," added Chambers. "We obviously want him available but you have to be careful with hamstring injuries because if it goes again, that would probably be him for the season."

Stalybridge are now managed by former Morecambe boss Jim Harvey and will include ex-Chester striker Michael Twiss in their 11.

By JAMES GARRISON