STAFFORD Rangers dashed Worcester City's debut 100 years ago with a 2-1 victory and are poised to chuck a spanner in tonight's centenary celebrations.

Ex-Wolves star Phil Robinson brings an in-form Stafford to St George's Lane already having claimed the scalp of title contenders Dover Athletic and City will need to be at their best to take three points.

The clash pits former Hereford United team-mates John Snape and Robinson against each other and with a combined age not too far short of their own centenary will be wise heads in a potential hothouse atmosphere.

Snape has been a pivotal figure in City's unbeaten march to the top of the Dr Martens Premier Division while player/manager Robinson has guided Rangers to a solid start in seventh place, just six points adrift of City.

Robinson's impact onRangers is no surprise to Snape.

"He's a very good player but I don't want to say too much because they are going quite well," said Snape.

"I think they pass the ball well, and will be sharp on set plays and free kicks which Phil is very good at."

The prospect of playing in front of a 2,000 plus crowd will not daunt Snape who is relishing the prospet.

"The bigger the crowd the better and as for the centenary it is a milestone for the club and hopefully we can win it which is the most important thing," he said.

City's superb start to the season has vindicated John Barton's decision to bring in Snape whose work rate and drive have been a crucial part of their early season form.

However the former Bulls man admits he would have liked to have chalked up even more points from their opening 10 matches.

"We've had a little bit of luck, made a bit of luck, but I'm probably a little disappointed we haven't got more points," said Snape.

"I'm enjoying it at the moment and I think the bubble is still blowing up and not about to burst."

Injuries are catching up with City but Snape sees it as an opportunity for others to make their mark.

"They make it difficult but it gives the other lads a chance to come in.

"Injuries hit every team but it is a shame that we've lost two big players (David Foy and Mark Shail) in important areas of the pitch but Jon Holloway and Leon Jackson have come in and done well."

A side effect of Worcester's success has been to stir opposing teams to greater effort and commitment but with Danny McDonnell and his back four proving tough nuts to crack, Snape is confident City can continue their unbeaten run.

Difficult

"People said Danny didn't have a great season last year which I find difficult to believe considering the form he has been in. The back five have been outstanding with Danny's saves and the back four clearing up any loose ends."

FORMCAST: City to win 2-1.