Hornchurch and Romford seeking points

Saturday

Conference South

Basingstoke v Hornchurch

Urchins slumped to the bottom of the table following their 4-0 defeat at Bromley in midweek.

Manager Jimmy McFarlane said it reminded him on the 7-1 loss they suffered at Tonbridge Angels a couple of seasons back, but that was the Ryman Premier Division.

Hornchurch are still searching for their first win since promotion, with three points from draws against Boreham Wood, Billericay and Weston-super-Mare to their name in the opening six fixtures of the season.

Stoke are unbeaten and unlikely to prove welcoming hosts so McFarlane’s men have a battle on their hands if they are to open their account this weekend.

Ryman Division 1N

Romford v Ilford

Boro have won just once so far this season - at Ilford on Bank Holiday Monday.

Goals from Hussain Isa and Toran Senghore sealed a 2-0 win at Cricklefield and Paul Martin’s men have the chance to complete a quick double in this rearranged fixture.

The two sides were not due to meet at Ship Lane until December 29 but moved to bring the match forward after exiting the FA Cup and seeing their scheduled league opponents otherwise engaged,

Martin does not believe his side’s earlier success will have any bearing on this clash, but will be hoping history does repeat itself and another three points can be secured.