AFC Telford v Leamington: Make or Brake for the Bucks

It is an absolute must-win encounter for the Bucks, who are in the National League North relegation zone on goal difference going into it.

Rob Edwards’ side are not in fine fettle, having lost 2-1 against Chorley at the weekend, but neither are the Brakes.

Paul Holleran’s charges – who are three points better off than Telford – have lost three of their last four games.

The Bucks beat them soundly, 3-0 thanks to an Anthony Dwyer double and a sweet Jordan Lussey strike, in the reverse fixture back in August too.

Edwards, though, warned: “It will be difficult, they pose a different test do Leamington.

“They’ve got some pace up front and they’re strong at the back, and experienced.”

The Telford chief is particularly wary of attacking midfielder Jack Edwards, who has three league goals to his name this term.

He played a big part in their promotion from the Evo-Stik Southern Premier last campaign and is again a key player for them, following a brief spell at Solihull Moors.

Another that gaffer Edwards is keeping an eye out for is Kieran Dunbar, who joined the Brakes from the Bucks.

The energetic 21-year-old signed for Telford last summer and only played a few games before being sent to the New Windmill Ground on loan, and then permanently.

“Jack Edwards is someone I quite like, actually. He is the No.10 and Kieran is there as well,” said the Bucks boss

“They’ve got some good players. The pitch will dictate it, it’ll be a similar sort of game (to Chorley).

“There will not be much total football played in the middle of the pitch. It’ll be a similar sort of affair, I would’ve thought.”

Something Telford will be aware of is Leamington are set to be in better physical condition than expected, as their scheduled game against Chorley on Tuesday night was called off due to a waterlogged pitch. It is is hoped the New Bucks Head surface will hold out.

On the Magpies defeat, and seeking a response against the Brakes, Edwards added: “We’re disappointed but we’re not down and out, by any means. It’s as you were. There’s six games to go and a huge one against Leamington.

“We just need everyone behind the players again.

“They’re going to play a real part.”