Deans out to slay Wessex giants

The Wessex League premier visitors to Five Heads Park are regarded as one of the most powerful units in the league.

Birmingham expects his team to have their work cut out to build on the mid-week win against Baffins Milton Rovers.

He said: ‘Sholing are not only big and organised they can also play football.

‘Without fail they always seem to finish in the top three and are a quality side.

‘The only way we can win is by going out and taking them on football-wise.

‘Earlier in the season we fought out an entertaining 0-0 draw at their place.’

The home side have Danny Boyle back in contention after illness along with Benny Reed who missed mid week as a precaution.

AFC Portchester are targeting a fifth consecutive win as they travel to Alresford Town.

The Royals have propelled themselves up to fifth in the league in their bid for a promotion spot.

Joint-manager Mick Catlin warned they can take nothing for granted against opponents just one place below them.

Catlin said: ‘If we are to win promotion we have to keep beating teams in and around us.

‘The players are showing a steely determination and seeing the fruits of their efforts.

‘Winning back-to-back games makes all the difference. We just need to keep winning and climbing the league.’

Striker Andy Todd returns from suspension for Portchester.

Fareham Town are looking to upset title-chasing Blackfield & Langley at Cams Alders.

Reds manager Pete Stiles is relishing the challenge to spring a surprise.

He said: ‘My players always seem to be able to raise their game against the better teams.

‘We are under no illusions, though, because Blackfield are a top side.’

Rob Pittman returns from suspension for Fareham and Louis Castles could also be available. George Davis is absent.

Baffins Milton Rovers travel to Amesbury Town looking to bounce back from their mid-week derby defeat at Horndean.

In Division One, United Services Portsmouth take on second-placed Tadley Calleva at the Victory Stadium.

United Services go into the game boosted by a 3-0 win over Hythe & Dibden last weekend.