AFC Telford looking to be more streetwise, says Elliot Newby

The youthful Bucks have had a promising season so far, sitting a point outside the National League North play-offs and making it to the first round of the FA Cup.

They have won seven, drawn one and lost eight in the league – and have a goal difference of minus four.

Newby feels game management is something Telford can improve upon, and said: “We have got an inexperienced team and, while that is no excuse, it is just about learning what to do – when we can be more clever.

“We did keep the ball in the corner (in the 1-1 draw with Southport on Saturday), we tried to manage the game as well as we could.

“It is just one of those things, giving away a penalty and conceding in stoppage-time, which is really hard to take.

“We have got to stay positive though, as we have a really big match to look forward to, going to Hereford in the FA Cup this weekend.”

Newby, aged 21, has become a fan favourite since arriving from Barrow during the summer.

He has scored three goals in 20 appearances, and insists he is loving life at the New Bucks Head.

“We have got a really strong squad when everyone is fit, it’s really good,” said Newby.

“Partnerships are forming all over the pitch and I feel really comfortable with all the lads up top.

“We are definitely coming together as a team.”

Newby will hope to keep up his record of featuring in every game for Telford this season as they head to Edgar Street – with more than 725 supporters – on Saturday.

While they did not get the three points against Southport, Newby feels there were a lot of positives to take from the game and can enter the clash with the Stags in a buoyant mood.

“That’s what the gaffer has said, I thought we were excellent in the first half – playing at a high tempo,” he added.

“He said to start the game quick, which we did and got a goal.

“We could have probably had one or two more. We should have come away with three points.”