Michael Birmingham to be back in the dugout for Horndean's trip to Shaftesbury

His side did that in his absence in their 3-2 win against Cowes Sports last weekend.

Birmingham missed that game with flu but is back to lead his team in their bid to further cut the gap on the title chasers - the Deans are only three points adrift of third-placed AFC Portchester.

‘Against Cowes it was the first time we have been pegged back twice but still went on to win,’ said Birmingham.

‘The team put in a very dogged and workmanlike performance.

‘Hopefully, we have turned the corner and the side are starting to get a bit of an edge back.

‘They are showing improved hunger, desire and a pride in playing for the shirt.

‘We will need all these qualities and more at Shaftesbury, which isn't a happy hunting ground for us.

‘Twice we have been there and lost on both occasions.

‘They have a big pitch but it is not the best to play on.

‘Shaftesbury will be well organised and hard working.

‘It will be a difficult game and we have to go there and match them.’

Horndean winger Greg Peel was in the Shaftesbury side when Horndean were beaten 3-1 on their travels last March - and the previous season Birmingham presided over a 1-0 loss in north Dorset.

Horndean are this weekend without unavailable 21-goal top scorer Bobby Scott, while defender Dan Sackman (ankle) and teenage midfielder Ben Anderson (groin) are injured.