Yeovil Town and Hull praise Gosport Borough for part played in Alex John's development

Borough have slipped to ninth, eight points adrift of the play-off places, and need to get something from the game against the White Tigers.

The hosts also want to get over the disappointment of their midweek defeat against Moneyfields in the Portsmouth Senior Cup.

But Molyneaux believes the club is heading in the right direction and cited youngster Alex John as an example.

The Yeovil player, who until recently was on loan at Privett Park, has gained himself a deal with Hull City.

‘We have received praise and credit from both Yeovil and Hull City for Alex's experience and development this season,’ said Molyneaux.

‘Alex and his family have also thanked us and they believe that his time at Gosport strengthened his opportunity.

‘It put him in the shop window and allowed him to gain consistency through playing competitive matches.

‘I can't speak highly enough of Alex with regard to both his attitude and ability.

‘We know that he has a bright future which we are proud to be part of.

‘It shows how far we have come as a club this season that we are now attracting Premier League and Football League professionals.

‘In the same way that helped Weymouth get promoted last season, a professional environment and increasing reputation within the football industry has helped us attract quality loanees to the club.

‘Gosport fans should enjoy watching the stars of the future at Privett Park.’

Borough face a big task if they are to achieve their ambitions of making the play-offs.

They have little room for manoeuvre, having played more games than the clubs around and above them.

‘We remain eight points off the play-offs and I firmly believe that if we apply ourselves then we can continue to push up the league,’ said Molyneaux.

Borough will need to find a cutting edge as the Cornish visitors - aiming to return to the National League South at the first time of asking - boast the second best defensive record in the league.

Managed by ex-Southampton midfielder Paul Wootton, they have conceded just 26 goals in the same number of matches.

Up front, former Plymouth striker Tyler Harvey and Nottingham Forest loanee Will Swan will provide a potent threat.

Swan has scored six goals in his five games so far and this week his loan was extended beyond an initial month.