Cowan and Telford are up for it

SOUTHEND v TELFORD

Telford have a good cup pedigree and head south in good spirits after a 15-match unbeaten run that has propelled them into the promotion shake up in the Blue Square North division.

They were held 2-2 by Southend at the New Bucks Head in the first meeting and the smart money is on the Shrimpers to complete the job at Roots Hall. However, Essex boy and Telford centre half Gavin Cowan is convinced there is a shock on the cards.

"Opportunities like this don't come along too often for players who play in the upper echelons of non-League," he said. "We're really looking forward to it and we fancy our chances - we never go anywhere thinking we're not going to get a result.

"There's a team every year that does it. We've seen Chasetown do it and loads of others in the history of the FA Cup, so why not us? Why can't it be AFC Telford this year? I've got a lot of family over that way and a lot of friends, and I think plenty of them are making the trip so I'm buzzing about it."

Bucks' boss Rob Smith is also relishing the challenge of pitting his wits against Steve Tilson's side for a second time. "We've got nothing to fear going down there. It will be tougher - especially as our lads will have been at work in the day as well - but I don't see why we can't go there and win."

CLARKY'S VERDICT: A bridge too far for Telford as Southend record a comfortable home win.


DROYLESDEN v DARLINGTON

Darlington may be top of League Two but their visit to the Butcher's Arms holds no fears for Blue Square North outfit Droylseden.

Dave Penney's side are in fearsome for but Bloods' manager Dave Pace insists his side will be playing better football and expects to win.

"It was a good battling performance but there is more to come," he said after the goalless draw at the Darlington Arena. "We've got them back at our place now and if we can intimidate them a bit and play a bit of football, then we might get a result.

"The lads are disappointed we didn't do better to be honest. Darlington play a lot of long balls but we like to keep it on the deck so it's two styles."

CLARKY'S VERDICT: The Quakers will be in for a tricky evening but will just pull through after extra time.