It's a test of character - Cowan

Telford skipper Gavin Cowan wants more passion from his players (OTMP)

AFC Telford captain Gavin Cowan wants his team to put their faltering league form behind them when they return to Setanta Shield duty on Tuesday night.

The Bucks have lost their last two home league games to fall three points off the pace in Blue Square North.

But, in the Setanta Shield, they have already claimed two Blue Square Premier scalps at the Bucks Head.

Cambridge United and Burton Albion were both seen off on the way to their northern semi-final against Kettering.

And Cowan sees Tuesday night's home clash with Kettering as "a test of character".

Cowan told BBC Radio Shropshire: "I think some of us, myself included, need to step up to the plate and show everyone what this football club is all about.

"There's nothing like jumping straight back into it and testing ourselves against the best in non-league football.

"If we don't start stepping up to the plate we won't be at the club for much longer, so we need to start doing it sooner rather than later,"

Telford are expected to be without striker Andy Brown who has picked up an achilles injury and defender Lee Vaughan, who is still suffering with an ankle injury.

But fellow defender Stuart Whitehead and midfielder Martyn Naylor could be in contention for a start after recovering from long-term injuries.