Smith backs Bucks to progress

The two sides played out a tame 0-0 draw at the New Bucks Head on Saturday, and must now do it all again this evening at St George's Lane (7.45pm).

But Smith remains confident that the Bucks can book a place in the fourth qualifying round on October 24, where they were today drawn away to either Salford City or Blyth Spartans. They play tomorrow.

"We've seen what we've got to play against tonight," said the Telford chief. "They're a strong, organised outfit but there's nothing to be scared of.

"The tie is still very much in the balance. The last time we went there we played ever so well and won 3-0.

"Hopefully we'll take some support there with us and let's go and win the tie."

Smith was hugely frustrated by his side's inability to kill the tie off at the first attempt on Saturday.

They had the vast majority of the play at the New Bucks Head, but failed to carve out any clear goalscoring opportunities.

"We might as well play with no goals, just like we do in training, and just play possession football," said Smith. "In the last third, nothing happens.

"They came for the draw and defended well, and they probably had the best two chances of the game.

"But they were as comfortable as anything at the back."

Meanwhile, midfielder Jamie Vermiglio opted not to play for Chorley in their 4-1 defeat at Northwich Victoria in order to avoid getting cup-tied.

Vermiglio had linked up with the Lancashire club in order to improve his match fitness, but a return to Telford now looks unlikely with Northwich having served seven days notice to the Bucks for his Blue Square North registration.

Telford received the approach last Thursday, so the move could be completed before the weekend.

By CHRIS HUDSON