Stafford Rangers have AFC Telford right in their sights
Stafford Rangers boss Neil Kitching insists ‘a team-talk should not be needed’ as they host AFC Telford United in the FA Cup tomorrow.
Rangers welcome the Bucks to Marston Road in the third qualifying round after enjoying an upset victory over Tamworth at the last stage.
A big crowd is expected for the tie and Boro forwards Dan Westwood and Izak Reid will be especially looking forward to it as they both used to play for Telford.
Defender Mat Bailey also used to play for the Bucks, and Kitching said: “They should all be up for it. It’s a cup game, the FA Cup, and it is against a good team in Telford. Dan and Izak will be up for it, but everyone should.
“It is one of those games where a team-talk should not be needed, really.
“The lads don’t need telling that it’s a big game.”
The Bucks are managed by ex-Wolves and Villa defender Rob Edwards. Like Tamworth, they play in National League North – the division above Evo-Stik Premier outfit Rangers. “It should a big gate as the FA Cup tends to generate an extra bit of interest,” said Kitching. “We know about Telford, we have watched them, and they know about us as well.
“I am really hoping the fans will come out in full force, like they did against Tamworth, as we will need them. We are capable of doing it on Saturday, we have showed we can compete and beat teams from that level. It’s a big test and a chance for the lads to get their names out there.”If we play like did on Tuesday night (beating Nantwich Town 3-0 in the league), then we have got a chance.”
