CANVEY soccer boss John Batch is appealling for the people of the island to get down to Park Lane in big numbers as his side make their final push for a play-off spot tomorrow.
Victory over mid-table Enfield Town would see the young Gulls' squad - with an average age of of 22 - battling for a place in the Premier next Tuesday and, hopefully, tomorrow week's final.
Despite having to overcome a chronic injury-list, the Islanders look set to achieve Batch's pre-season prediction that they would make the play-offs.
He said: "Without wishing to sound conceited, I firmly believe we're one of the top five sides in this division and deserve a stab at the play-offs.
"We just missed out last season and perhaps we weren't ready then.
"But we've gained a lot of experience over the past year - even though we're still very young and will get even better.
"If we get a good crowd who make plenty of noise the players will respond.
"We're ready for it, but don't expect any favours from Enfield.
"I never subscribe to the idea that some teams have nothing to play for.
"By their very nature sportsmen are competitive whethey they run, play football, cricket or any other pursuit."
Gulls only doubt concerns striker Jay Curran, who was due to have a fitness test last night.
But the re-emergence of Ian Luck, who has been out of the action for a long spell through injury. has lessened the effect of Curran's absence."
Said Batch: "It's certain that if we make the play-offs we'd be away for both the semis and the final, but that wouldn't bother us.
"We've picked up 43 points from a possible 63 on opposition territory and that's far better than our record at Park Lane this term."
Tomorrow's match will be preceded by the presentation of the supporters' player of the year trophy and Batch added: "With the right result this promises to be a great day for the club."
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