Striker Telford plans to carry on scoring
NEWPORT County goal machine Dom Telford doesn’t plan on letting his fine early-season form come to an end as the Exiles turn their attention to FA Cup action.
Striker Telford has had a redhot start to the new campaign with 10 goals in 10 games so far. His nine goals in League Two make him the division’s joint topscorer.
Telford and Newport are in FA Cup first round action at Morecambe today (3pm) – the side which beat them in last season’s League Two play-off final at Wembley.
Revenge will surely be on the agenda for the Exiles, but having in-form striker Telford in their side means manager James Rowberry must travel north with confidence.
“It’s been a good month for me, but I’m not going to stop there. Hopefully I can keep it going because I’m here to score goals,” said Telford, 24.
“My best season is 14 goals and I’m hoping to get as many as I
can although I’ll keep my target close to my chest. I’m not going to give anything away, but I’m not happy with 10!
“It’s a confidence thing and if you’ve scored a few, it’s second nature when the chances come your way. I’m just enjoying my football.”
Telford arrived at County from Plymouth in January and he had a slow start to his Exiles career, often sitting on the bench for former manager Mike Flynn.
But he has exploded into life this term and been full of confidence while making the most of his opportunities to start regularly.
“I like scoring goals, I’m ambitious, and I want to do well, but I feel like it’s been a few years now of it not quite happening for me,” said Telford.
“I knew if I kept working hard, it was only a matter of time before I started scoring, especially in a team like we’ve got.
“We created so many chances against Stevenage – the strikers take the plaudits but it was a great team performance.
“We’re on a good unbeaten run now and we’re bouncing into games and looking forward to them.”
County have claimed impressive wins over Bristol Rovers and Stevenage since Rowberry was named as the club’s new permanent boss following Wayne Hatswell’s caretaker stint.
“I want to continue what we are doing and the FA Cup is important for the club. We are going there to win the game, of course,” said Rowberry.
“Everybody needs to know that they will have an opportunity at some point because football’s a game where you can get injuries.
“We play Morecambe, then Swindon, then an away game at Hartlepool on a Friday. We need to make sure everybody is as fit as possible to be able to be available.”