Birmingham set to ring ‘big’ Deans changes

Michael Birmingham wants Horndean to get back to basics as they welcome Solent University to Five Heads Park.

Birmingham was disappointed by many aspects of their midweek home defeat against AFC Portchester which saw them reduced to nine men.

Ash Howes was sent off just before the half-hour mark and Fuzz Kanjanda, pictured, saw red 20 minutes from time for a second bookable offence.

Birmingham feels his team need to rediscover their passing game.

‘We have to move the ball quickly, which is something we didn't do against Portchester,’ he said.

‘Instead, we went too straight and too long which is not what we are about.

‘We got caught up in the occasion, which is unlike us.

‘The students of Solent University will present us with a different challenge.

‘They will be young, enthusiastic, possess high energy levels and, like us, will want to play.

‘Their manager James Taylor is a legend and I highly rate his son Ethan, who plays up top for them. ‘We will need to stop him. 'They are so young and they play with no fear, and when they get it right can be very scary.

‘We must match their work rate if we are to give ourselves a chance.

‘I envisage making big changes for this game and for the rest of the season.’

Pete Stiles has warned Fareham Town not to take Cowes Sports for granted at Cams Alders.

The Reds recently beat the Yachtsmen 4-1 on the Isle of Wight, but the manager insists that counts for nothing.

‘Our track record against the teams lower down in the league isn’t great,’ said Stiles.

‘Although we have beaten the top sides, we have a habit of slipping up against the lesser teams.

‘It is a habit that we have to get out of.

‘These stupid results have to stop.’

Fareham have doubts over the fitness of top scorer Josh Benfield and Luke Slade, but

Stiles is optimistic both will be fit.