Smith wary of Cup slip against Corby

Rob Smith" class="imageframe imgalignright" height="130" src="http://www.shropshirestar.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/robsmith4.jpg" title="Rob Smith" width="175"/>Boss Rob Smith has warned AFC Telford United to be prepared for an almighty FA Cup tussle when Corby Town arrive in town tomorrow.

Smith's Blue Square North side will start as favourites for the second qualifying round tie against the Northamptonshire visitors from one level lower in the BGB Southern League.

But the Telford chief believes that brings added pressure and has warned players and fans alike not to take the Corby threat too lightly.

The Steelmen lie second in their league, having won five and lost just one of their first eight games.

"It would be great to go on a run but, as far as I'm concerned, we've had another nightmare draw," said Smith.

"The one thing is that at least it's at home, but they're a team with big money and they're on a right roll at the moment.

"They've got some great players and they've got nothing to lose. We could have had a much easier draw, and all the pressure is on us because we're expected to win.

"It's a real banana skin but we've got to try and be positive."

Smith has had the visitors watched twice since the draw was made and is quick to highlight the danger men.

"Matt Nolan got 17 goals for King's Lynn when they won the Southern League last season and he was a player they were desperate to hold on to," he revealed.

Smith has been boosted with Gavin Cowan coming through training with no complications last night, easing fears that he would be ruled out by a toe injury.

Asa Charlton will also be in the Telford squad, having had an outing for Hednesford in midweek.