Fareham eager to retain top spot in Wessex Premier against ‘awkward’ Brockenhurst

Fareham striker Josh Benfield, middle, about to score in last weekend's 3-3 Vase draw with Badhsot Lea, with the Reds progressing on penalties. Pic: Paul Proctor.

The Reds were knocked off their perch in midweek, on goal difference, by Lymington Town.

Pete Stiles's side are also looking to complete a quickfire league double over their New Forest opponents.

It was only just over a month ago that Fareham returned from Brockenhurst with a 3-2 win.

That was a close-fought affair and Stiles is expecting more of the same.

'It is always a bit strange when you play someone again so quickly,' he said.

'The first meeting could have gone either way but we managed to do enough to win it.

'I am expecting another tough game.

'Brockenhurst have tended to do well at our place and are awkward opponents.

'One thing they always do is keep going for 90 minutes.

'We have to be prepared to do the same.

'After losing top spot we must look to get it back as soon as possible.'

Stiles will have to make sure that his players are not distracted by their FA Vase success.

After beating Badshot Lea on penalties, Fareham were rewarded with another home tie in the next round against Bristol-based Western League Premier outfit Roman Glass St George.

The focus this weekend, however, is collecting league points.

'We are on a good seven-game unbeaten run,' said Stiles.

'There are a few tricky games coming up and we want to make sure that we stay up there.

'On our day we are a good side and we have seen glimpses of that this season.

'The big difference is consistency.

'In the past we would have a good result and then slip up in silly games.

'One thing we must do is make sure that we win as many home games as we can.'

Brockenhurst are without a league win since beating Cowes Sports 1-0 in their season-opener on September 5.