Eddie Jones: This is a must-win for us Telford

The game at the New Bucks Head tomorrow is one Rob Smith's charges will be hoping to pick up at least a point from as they look to move clear of the National League North drop zone, writes Joe Edwards.

They are currently 16th – four points ahead of the relegation places – while visitors Bradford are just one point ahead of third-bottom Gainsborough Trinity.

Telford go into it on the back of successive league defeats – a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Brackley Town, and then a 2-1 loss at Chorley last weekend – but spirits have been lifted by this week's Shropshire Senior Cup triumph.

"It is a must-win game, we want to get back on track," said Jones.

"We had the 6-0 defeat and I felt we reacted to that well last week, but for us it is a must-win.

"We said on Tuesday night it would be nice to win the Shropshire Senior Cup – and luckily we delivered.

"Now the focus is on the game. We have to go out and fully understand the importance of the game.

"Bradford are going to be up for it so we have to make sure we are ready, avoid any mishaps, and then we'll take it from there."

Jones – who studied in America and had spells at the likes of Ottawa Fury and IKF Maryland across the pond – has made 10 appearances since joining Telford from Solihull Moors.

He netted twice in his first two games – long-rangers against Gainsborough and Curzon Ashton. He has had to show more of a defensive side to his game in recent weeks though, and has completed 90 minutes of each of his last two games – last weekend at Chorley, and then in the 2-0 win over Shrewsbury on Tuesday.

When asked how he feels fitness-wise, Jones said: "I am feeling fitter with every game I play.

"And I am still getting used to it a little bit. I am not making excuses, but when you are a new to a team it does take a few weeks to get used to how everyone plays and build your fitness up and I feel as if I'm pretty much there now.

"Being new does play a factor but I have a good number of games under my belt and I am looking to give my all for the team and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"Me, Jack (Rea) and Jon (Royle) are all honest lads.

"The gaffer wants us to work hard in the middle of the park and that's what we have been doing."

Telford are hoping to welcome back Lee Hughes and Luke Higham for the game following spells on the sidelines though injury.

On those two, Jones added: "Lee came in and scored a couple of good goals in his first couple of games.

"He has a lot of experience and his finishing is unquestionable – he's very comfortable in front of goal.

"We have missed him, as we have missed Luke.

"He has done well at full-back with some really steady performances so it would be good to see both of those back in the team."