Fearless and free-scoring Fareham Town aiming to find way through Lymington's mean defence

The rampant Reds hold a two-point lead at the top with second-placed Hamworthy United and Lymington, in third, hard on their heels.

Although the New Forest side are three points behind the table-toppers, importantly, they have two games in hand.

It promises to be an epic encounter between the most potent attack in the league - Fareham - and the meanest defence in Lymington.

Stiles's side have scored 29 goals in nine league outings while the New Forest side have conceded just once in their seven matches.

The Fareham boss accepts Lymington will present them with a difficult challenge.

‘We are not going there to sit back - that's for sure,’ said Stiles.

‘It is not in our nature to play for the draw and we certainly don't intend going there to get beat.

‘We will attack them - we don't know any other way - and see where it gets us.

‘Our record shows that we possess the firepower to cause them problems.

‘I expect us to have a good go.

‘Some see this as our biggest test so far but they said the same before we beat Portchester.

‘We are top of the league and that is where we want to stay.’

Stiles has been hit by injuries and unavailability as they prepare for one of their toughest tests so far this term.

Charlie Cooper, Josh Benfield and Gary Austin are all out injured.

Meanwhile, Jack Breed is self-isolating after returning from his stint with Gibralter under-21s, with Ethan Jones also unavailable.

Fareham are currently enjoying their best success for many years and Stiles wants that to continue despite the absences.

‘Being top of the league breeds confidence,’ said Stiles.

‘There is good competition for places and the players are pushing each other on.

‘Every week a different player seems to push himself to the fore and it is all down to a good team effort.’

One result of Fareham's success is the increase in support they are receiving this season.

Stiles sees that as another important factor behind the strong start to the campaign.

‘We will be taking 50 to 70 fans to Lymington with us,’ added the Fareham boss.

‘That is great for a club like ours.

‘They make a big difference getting behind the players who appreciate it.'