Davies eyes vital home win in fight for survival

JACK DAVIES reckons Portsmouth & Southsea have to beat Trojans tomorrow to keep their Southern League division three survival hopes alive, writes Kevin Ricketts.

The St James's Hospital outfit sit eighth in the table — one place above their visitors, who occupy the second relegation spot — with two games remaining.

A win will put daylight between the sides before Portsmouth & Southsea travel to Purbrook on the final day of the season.

Skipper Davies, inset, said: 'This is basically a winnertakes-all game.

'Trojans play Lymington II, who are already relegated, in their last match and are almost certain to win that.

'There are a few other clubs involved in the fight to avoid the drop but we know we need to win this one.

'If we win I believe we will stay up. It will practically make us safe.

'We have reached the final of the T2O Plate and don't want to go to the Ageas Bowl knowing we have been relegated.

'The players are confident they can do what is necessary.

'Wehavewonourlastsix games, including three in the league, so we are giving it all we can.'

Division three is so tight that six teams are still in danger, including Fareham & Crofton and Purbrook.

'The margin for error has been so small this year,' added Davies.

'If we play to our ability we will win.

'We have to make sure we turn up and give it 100 per cent.

'As a club it is crucial we don't drop down to the Hampshire League.

'We know from experience just how difficult it is to get back up.'

Chris Turrell returns from Royal Navy duties to boost the bowling attack.

Fareham & Crofton and Purbrook travel to Tichborne Park and Bashley II, respectively.

Third-placed Hambledon visit Fawley.

In the top flight, Havant travel to Basingstoke & North Hants while Burridge host Hampshire Academy.

Portsmouth host Sparsholt and Sarisbury entertain Calmore Sports in division one.

Waterlooville take on Fair Oak in division two.