Today’s trip to New Bucks Head provides a perfect opportunity for Bradford (Park Avenue) to bounce back from last week’s humbling at the hands of Altrincham.
AFC Telford United have emerged as one of the most dangerous sides in the Vanarama National League North this season, rising to 3rd under the tutelage of former Bucks player Gavin Cowan.
Bradford will be welcoming a return to league action after the FA Trophy exit and will be reassured by the fact that they remain top of the division. Mark Bower’s side haven’t lost a league game since the 13th October, beating the likes of Chorley and York City in a remarkable ascension to the summit.
AFC Telford also embarked on an unbeaten run in league throughout November and advanced in the FA Trophy with a 2-0 victory over Darlington last week.
GUIDE TO THE OPPOSITION:
The Gaffer:
Gavin Cowan
The 37-year-old stepped into management in May this year, replacing Rob Edwards as Bucks boss. As a player, he represented Shrewsbury in the Football League but spent most of his career in non-league, enjoying spells with the likes of Braintree Town, Kidderminster Harriers, Nuneaton Borough and AFC Telford United.
Ones To Watch:
Amari Morgan-Smith
A tricky forward with an eye for goal, Morgan-Smith is certainly one for opposition defences to keep an eye on. He made the switch to New Bucks Head in February from league rivals York City and has proved to be a key asset for the club. The 29-year-old provided the winning goal on Telford’s last league outing, against F.C United of Manchester, and will be keen to add to his tally today. The former England C international was plying his trade in League One as recently as the 2014/15 season and spent the first half of the 2016/17 campaign in League Two with Cheltenham Town.
Yusifu Ceesay
The pacey 23-year-old was added to AFC Telford’s squad yesterday completing a loan move from Blackpool. A direct winger, he could be in line to make his Bucks debut against Bradford today.