AFC Telford United: Relegated Bucks vow to fight back

AFC Telford United's board have pledged to fight back following the pain of suffering relegation from the Blue Square Bet Premier.

The Bucks' fate was sealed on Saturday when they lost at home to Nuneaton to secure an unwanted return to the level they left under Andy Sinton in 2011.

But, nine years on from being reformed in 2004 after the old Telford United's liquidation, they remain defiant.

"The fightback starts today," said a club statement issued on Thursday.

"We will be entering our 10th season on the back of our biggest disappointment.

"With the benefit of hindsight, we may have done some things differently.

"We've had individuals who had different aspirations to that of the club.

"We hadn't thought through the pricing for our younger supporters.

"And, above all, we've strayed from doing what we do best.

"That said, there still remains a hunger and desire to improve towards being the very best that we can be."

After being under the command of four different managers this season - Sinton, Mark Cooper, Graham Hyde and current incumbent John Psaras - the Telford board have not yet made a decision on who will lead their attempt to bounce straight back up from the Blue Square Bet North next season.

But, having confirmed that they will remain a part-time set-up, they also had a message to their beleaguered supporters.

"Ten years ago we had nothing but your faith and £63,000 collected by your efforts," added the statement.

"It would be easy to give up and stop pursuing the dream. But we know that you really don't want that.

"We have, and always will, run your football club on your behalf and in your best interests.

"We will strive to be amongst the best part-time teams.

"And we pledge to you the following: fairly-priced season tickets and admission prices; free season tickets to everyone under the age of eight; and admission prices for younger people that recognise their lower income levels.

"We can't promise a win every week, but we will promise to work to enhance a special bond between players, management, the fans and the club.

"We will look to recruit players and staff who understand what we are. We want people who want to be part of this special club."