AFC Telford v Brackley Town: Bucks hope to finally halt Saints’ march

The Bucks were comfortably beaten 3-1 at home by Brackley Town last season and walloped 6-0 the campaign prior, writes Joe Edwards.

Based on Telford’s first three displays of this term though – unbeaten, conceding just once – you would back them to hold their own this time around.

The Bucks were all over the shop at the back against the Saints last time around at the New Bucks Head – and even more so in the previous clash to that which was proper head-in-hands stuff, tough to watch.

But you can tell new chief Gavin Cowan used to be a defender.

In the 1-0 win over Southport, 0-0 draw at Kidderminster Harriers and 1-1 draw at Guiseley, Telford were solid.

They are well-drilled and well-built and it doesn’t seem like many sides will carve them open with ease.

They have a platform on which to build and, hopefully, will display more attacking flair over the next couple of weeks.

Cowan has another defensive option for tonight as Dom Smith is back following suspension. The Bucks chief has a tough decision on his hands – does he bring Smith back in at the heart of defence or stick with Theo Streete?

Streete has been very assured alongside skipper Shane Sutton and will be especially excited for this match after spending last season with the Saints.

At the top end of the pitch, Andre Brown is expected to replace Daniel Udoh.

Brown came off the bench at Guiseley and opened his Bucks account, from the penalty spot, before Curtis Morrison levelled late on for the home side. Amari Morgan-Smith should be the other striker in a 4-4-2 formation.

There are a few Brackley players that Telford need to keep a close eye on.

James Armson netted twice in the 6-0 thrashing and was a key figure in their run to FA Trophy glory earlier this year.

He is somebody Cowan knows all about – the pair are good friends and Armson works for Cowan’s company, Crossbar Coaching – so the Bucks will have been warned not to allow him too much space.

Glenn Walker and Lee Ndlovu have the pace to cause Telford a fair few problems while captain Gareth Dean is considered one of the best centre-halves in the division.

Goalkeeper Max Bramley, like on Saturday, will not be involved at the request of parent club Leicester City.

He suffered a head injury at Kidderminster which required 17 stitches, although he was not concussed.

Sheridan Martinez will be between the sticks in his absence.

On Bramley and Martinez, Cowan said: “Max needs to sit out.

“He’s had 17 stitches so it’s a case of looking after him.

“That being said, we’re hoping he’ll be back in contention for the game up at Spennymoor Town on Saturday.

“Shez was brilliant on Saturday. His kicking was fantastic and there was nothing he could’ve done about the goal at the end.”