The game of the weekend undoubtedly comes from the National League South as Dorking host Eastbourne Borough at Meadowbank. The National League South title race is going down to the wire and with these teams separated by just one point, it is all to play for in Surrey.
Dorking suffered their first relegation in history last season, with Marc White looking for instant redemption. Worthing had the chance to move seven points clear at the top of the table but losses to Welling and Hornchurch has opened the title race and given the chasing pack hope.
It has been a topsy turvy season, with many teams leading the way at some points this campaign, but Dorking have been the team to beat at times. Three games without a win, including a first loss in 13 games stifled momentum, but a 0-1 win at fellow promotion contenders Boreham Wood has given hope.
No team has scored more goals than Dorking's 76, with the deadly duo of Alfie Rutherford and Jason Prior scoring 29 goals between them. Midfield metronome Charlie Carter has also chipped in with ten goals and will also be crucial if Dorking are to get a positive result. The sides played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the league in August, while Eastbourne Borough won 1-2 in the FA Trophy. When looking at previous games between the sides, goals are a familiar theme with the last eight seeing at least three goals for an average of 4.75 goals.
Eastbourne Borough turned full time in the summer of 2023 but struggled to make the most of this last season. Adam Murray was hired as manager during the season, keeping the Sports up, and has his side battling for promotion this year. Boro sit third, behind Truro and county rivals Worthing.
Murray's side are unbeaten in eight games and have flexed their attacking muscles in this run, scoring 19 goals, including ten in the last three games. No side have a better points tally than their 44, but seven teams have accumulated more away points so they will be keen to improve this towards the end of the season.
Eastbourne had a large transfer outlay in the summer, signing the top talents from the National League South. One player in particular who has proven his worth is George Alexander. The 24-year-old is a proven scorer at this level and has scored 21 goals this season- the second most in the league. The signing of Jason Adigun on loan has added an extra dynamic to their attack, so Eastbourne are a force to be reckoned with.
Saturday's game sees two teams packed with talent going head to head in what should be a barnstorming affair. Both teams are strong in attack but hard to break down, so a cagey game could be in store.
Prediction: 1-1
Best Bet: Eastbourne Borough +0.5 Asian Handicap @1.775
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