AFC Telford brought back 'down to earth'
Assistant boss Larry Chambers insists AFC Telford United have been brought 'down to earth' ahead of their National League North opener against Fylde.
In their final pre-season fixture, the Bucks were beaten 3-0 by Birmingham City Under-21s at the New Bucks Head and saw central defender Dan Preston sent off.
Chambers commended the visitors for their work ethic and was disappointed with the goals his side conceded.
The first two were sublime strikes into the top corner from Wes McDonald and Ronan Hale.
But Alex Jones was left with too much space in the box to fire home for the visitors' third and final goal.
Chambers said: "I'm a little bit disappointed really. I thought they were quicker and sharper.
"It's the first team we've played in pre-season where they have looked shraper and fitter than us.
"Our fitness levels have been good, we have worked hard, but I thought they came here with a great work ethic and for the first 20 minutes we didn't match it.
"That set the tone of the game. I don't think generally we were at the races early on.
"We came out in the second half and the plan was to be strong and in their faces, which we hadn't in the first half, and again we switched off.
"All three goals, from my point of view, were bad goals to concede."
The Bucks get their season started at home against Fylde on Saturday, who are among the favourites for promotion, before a trip to FC United of Manchester.
Chambers realises the importance of having a positive start to the season.
He's warned the Bucks if they defend in the same manner as they did against Birmingham, they will be in trouble at the weekend.
He said: "Fylde will present a massive challenge for us and if we defend the way we did, we will have the same problems.
"From my point of view, I'm just glad it wasn't a league game and there were no points at stake. I think it has given us a kick up the backside.
"Pre-season has gone well, we have done well, but maybe that will bring us down to earth and realise we are not as far forward as we think we are.
"We will work hard this week and prepare for Fylde but it will be a difficult game because they are one of the favourites."
