After the disappointment of two consecutive Southern League defeats, Smith and assistant manager Chris Tracey held a meeting with the players after training last Thursday, where they demanded greater commitment.

At Sutton Coldfield the players responded in style, the victory lifting AFC to the dizzy heights of third place in the Midland division, new signing Kevin Hawes marking his debut with two goals.

"It was a great debut. He can take the pressure off James Rowe up front. But it wasn't just him. Everyone played their part in the victory," said Smith.

The only disappointments were the sending-off of Sam Clarke late in the game, which brings a three-match ban, starting next week, and missing out on a clean sheet.

Smith and Tracey watched Waltham Forest lose 4-0 at Maldon on Tuesday. "But don't read too much into that," said Smith. "It will be a tricky tie with the match being played at Ilford."

The match is being played at Ilford's Cricklefield Stadium, which has a running track around the pitch, Forest having left their Wadham Lodge ground late last season following a rent increase.

Smith is confident that, if the team play like last week, AFC can make progress. "A run would be handy, not just for the prize money, but to put the club back on the map. I will be disappointed if we don't win."

The clubs were Ryman league opponents over the last two seasons, but both have seen major changes on the playing front since their last league meetings.

Smith has virtually a full-strength squad to select from. Sheridan Driver has extended his stay in the US, and Gareth Heath is recovering from a minor operation.

Heath will test his fitness tonight, but will not be risked on Saturday if there is any doubt. "The lads who did so well last week have got the shirts," said Smith.

Smith is pursuing another striker, and expects to have further talks tonight. If a deal is agreed in time the player will be in the squad to travel to Waltham Forest.

l Week 22 winners of the AFC Gold fundraiser: £100 – Mrs K Collins (295), North Rise, Gt Cornard; £10 – Mr C Rixon (474), Broadway Stores, Glemsford; £10 – Mr C Haynes-Brown (314), Pine Drive, Ipswich.