Fareham Town preparing to host high-flying Horndean side ready to exact some 'revenge'

The Reds pulled off one of the division's shock results of the season when they thumped Michael Birmingham's table-toppers 5-1 at Five Heads Park in November.

Admittedly Fareham's form has been up and down since that standout display, but they have drawn with second-placed Hamworhy since then and ran out 5-4 winners at Baffins Milton Rovers, who are currently third, just last week.

And although the Reds always seem to rise to the occasion when they come up against the top Wessex Premier teams, Stiles is well aware leaders Horndean will have the result from the reverse fixture fixed on their minds when they meet again.

‘They're going to come here seeking revenge, without a doubt,’ said Stiles.

‘If we're on our game and we're professional about it like we were against Backfield, there's no reason why we can't take three points.

‘If you look at it we've had Baffin, Blackfield, now we’ve got Horndean and AFC Stoneham - if we suddenly win those games then you start chasing the pack down a little bit. I'm not saying we're going to get in the top two or three, but we're suddenly closing in.

‘If you're up around seventh or eighth place it’s suddenly looking like a more respectable season.’

Incredibly, Fareham could be forced into another goalkeeper change for the visit of the Deans. Jay Morris came in for his debut in the 2-0 weekend win over his former club Blackfield & Langley, but he is a doubt to feature against Horndean having picked up a hip problem on debut.

Birmingham takes his troops to Fareham with his men currently top of the division of goal difference. Ahead of the visit, the Deans boss showered praise on Fareham opposite number Stiles for the 'brilliant' work he's done during his tenure at Cams Alders.

Birmingham said: ‘We know Fareham are an outstanding side. Pete Stiles (Fareham manager) always designs a team around bundles of goals and pace, he really does.

‘I've got nothing but the utmost respect for Pete and what he's done for Fareham, since he took over he has been absolutely brilliant.

‘They've got a great fanbase, we got a bit of stick when they beat us - rightly so - the fans are brilliant and want them to win all the time. I think Fareham are reaping the rewards for what Pete Stiles has done.’