Shropshire Star

AFC Telford boss Rob Edwards excited by attacking duo

Boss Rob Edwards feels AFC Telford United could have a potent strike partnership on their hands in Marcus Dinanga and Anthony Dwyer.

Published
Last updated
Anthony Dwyer is congratulated by Marcus Dinanga (left) and Curtis Strong after opening the scoring at Leamington

Dinanga, who is on loan from Burton Albion, and Dwyer are the Bucks' joint top scorers in National League North so far, having netted twice each.

The pair of 20-year-olds had a spell in attack together for Matlock Town in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier last season and paired up again in the 3-0 win at Leamington on Monday, with Dwyer getting a brace.

Edwards feels the pace and power of the duo can cause a lot of problems and said: "What you need, at any level of football, is people that are willing to run in behind.

"Defenders don't like facing their own goal, and they don't like people who work hard.

"Our front two ran in behind and worked hard (on Monday), and they were a constant threat.

"Whoever plays in those positions needs to do that."

It was Dwyer's first Telford start at the New Windmill Ground and he made a big impression, getting a fine reception from the travelling supporters.

On playing up top with Dinanga, he said: "To be fair, me and him had a little spell together last season at Matlock.

"Obviously the partnership is still there and we will be working on it more in training.

"Hopefully it will be a more regular thing. It is about making sure defenders can't cope with me and Marcus, and putting the ball into the back of the net."

Dwyer was signed by the Bucks this summer after impressing on trial.

He came through the ranks at Mansfield Town, alongside Telford team-mate Joe Fitzpatrick, before being released in July of last year.

As well as playing for Ilkeston, Matlock and Stafford Rangers last season, he has previously had spells on loan at Mickleover Sports and Carlton Town.

Dwyer is now looking to fulfil his potential at the New Bucks Head, and he added: "The aim was to come here and settle, and learn my trade here and kick on.

"Last season, I started at Ilkeston and ended up at Stafford – it was a bit of a rollercoaster.

"The aim is to crack on now and hopefully keep my spot in the team and do well for the club."