Rob Smith with defensive decision to make for AFC Telford

The Bucks go to Moss Lane on the back of a much-needed 1-0 win against FC United of Manchester at the New Bucks Head, writes Joe Edwards.

Altrincham, who are managed by Jim Harvey, will head into the game with renewed confidence following a 2-0 triumph in their last fixture in the league against Stalybridge Celtic.

Last weekend, they beat Matlock Town 3-1 in the FA Cup to set up a first round tie with Lincoln City.

"They are coming into it off some good results," said Smith.

"Altrincham is always a tough place to go and Jim Harvey, who is a man with plenty of experience, took over recently so it's probably a bad time to face them, really.

"Altrincham had a bad start after getting relegated from the National League last season but they won't be anywhere near the relegation places come the end of the season."

In terms of players at his disposal, Smith has four fit centre-halves to choose from.

Skipper Luca Havern is back in contention after missing the FC United game through suspension.

Paul McCone and Ben Bailey, who both played last weekend and hardly put a foot wrong, will hope to retain their places while Dan Preston, who has been left on the bench for the last two games, could be given a chance.

"The team is judged by its bench and no matter who starts, there will be a good bench for the game," said Smith.

"There's Luca, Paul, Ben and Dan and then you have got Dwayne Samuels who was on the bench in the last game as well.

"It is looking good in terms of competition and it is a good headache to have as a manager."

Connor McCarthy's fine half-volley was enough to see the Bucks through against FC United.

Smith praised the striker for getting off the mark and is now looking for more consistency from him, and the rest of the squad.

"Connor got the goal and that was a weight off his shoulders," he added.

"He has looked good in training and hopefully he can follow it up, like the rest of the team have to.

"It is all good getting a result but it's about following it up with another – not just getting wins here and there.

"We have to start winning games away from home, which we haven't managed to do yet."