Rob Edwards backs his AFC Telford United warriors
Boss Rob Edwards has applauded his AFC Telford 'warriors' who he feels have got stronger over the past couple of weeks.
The Bucks are 19th in National League North, two points clear of the relegation zone.
They lost 1-0 at Stockport County on Saturday and make the long journey to Blyth Spartans tomorrow.
Assessing the state of things, Edwards said: "We have shown recently that we are good at bouncing back from disappointments and adversity. We have got stronger.
"We were tiny margins from getting a well-earned point at the weekend.
"We've tried to simplify things hugely over recent weeks. We wanted to be slightly more cautious and stay in the game at Stockport, which we did.
"All the lads, all the way through, were warriors.
"Everyone is fighting down there. Nobody is going to give up – we are no different."
Edwards welcomed some players back from the cold at Edgeley Avenue.
John McAtee, Jon Royle and John Marsden have all struggled for game time in the last month or so but started the defeat, Darren Stephenson the scorer for the Hatters.
"I thought they did great. They gave us absolutely everything," said Edwards on those who returned to the fold.
"We had to be as physically strong as we could, and I thought Jon Royle was magnificent – winning first balls. He looked strong.
"They all worked their socks off. I was delighted with everyone that came in."
Edwards also explained why he took off Ryan Giles early into the second half. Elliot Newby came on for him.
Giles has made a big impression since joining on loan from Wolves.
The 18-year-old, from Telford, has quickly become a fan favourite with his willingness to take on his marker and get crosses and shots off.
"I think he looked a little bit tired to be honest," added Edwards.
"He's a sprinter and it looked like that going from Thursday (the 3-2 win against Leamington) to Saturday was maybe a bit too much.
"We need to look after him as he's still a young player.
"He's done great but it's good to have someone like Elliot to come off the bench and freshen things up with his energy.
"There's no reason other than that he just looked a bit tired."
