Havant and Waterlooville manager Paul Doswell is relishing the challenge of facing league leaders Wealdstone at Grosvenor Vale on Saturday. 

The Stones have won 10 out of their first 11 games and sit eight points clear at the top of the National League South, ten in front of the Hawks.

But despite their early form, Doswell is expecting a tight encounter between the sides and believes the two teams style of play will be conducive to a good game.

He said: “I don’t think you can underplay this one. It is a big game for both sides.

“I know Dean Brennan and Stu really well, who I have to say are an excellent management team which we’ve respected and get on well the four of us – always been competitive and I don’t think that’s going to be any different on Saturday.

“You don’t win the league or lose the league that’s for sure by what happens on Saturday but if they go 13 points clear it does make it more difficult. But we were 26 points behind Ebbsfleet in November when I was at Sutton and that was a huge task and we overhauled that.

“It’s not season defining, but it is a good game and one we’re really looking forward to. Two good teams, we’ve been to see them a few times, I know Dean has come to see us on Wednesday nights and I think Wealdstone will flood in numbers, so do we so I’m expecting some goalmouth action and a good game because that’s important.

“Wealdstone, I love going there, their fans are superb especially away from home but at home they create a great atmosphere and it’s a place I’ve always enjoyed going to and we’ll take 100/150 fans.

“It’s a proper game, one we’re looking forward to and looking forward to renewing acquittances with Dean and Stu and let the best man win.”