Two teams striving for promotion from the National League South meet on Saturday when fourth placed Ebbsfleet United host Dorking Wanderers, who are in second.

Each team has enjoyed a spell at the top of the league and will know the importance of finishing as high as possible. Only the champions gain automatic promotion, but the runners-up are guaranteed home advantage all the way through the play-offs and they plus the team in third place start with a bye.

Over the last six matches, the Fleet have the edge in the form guide and are in fourth place with four wins and two draws whilst Dorking are in sixth place with three wins, two defeats and one draw. 

Last Saturday, Ebbsfleet won one-nil at St. Albans City in a tight match, courtesy of a goal by Dominic Poleon. Meanwhile Dorking, who had appeared to be in control of their own destiny, were held to a two all draw at home to Hampton and Richmond Borough. They were one up by the break but two-one down before the hour mark. Wes Fogden equalised with fifteen minutes remaining, but they could not find a winner. Their run of one win in four means that they have now relinquished top spot to Maidstone United.

When the teams met at Dorking in January, the club from Surrey gave Ebbsfleet a difficult afternoon, winning five-one. Matt Briggs gave them a one goal half time lead but completed his hat-trick in the second half. Fogden and Alfie Rutherford were also on target with Adam Mekki’s goal for Ebbsfleet at four down, being a mere consolation.

However, Ebbsfleet will be aware that Dorking’s home record is far better than when they are on the road as they have gone home empty handed from their travels six times. Added to that, the Fleet’s home record of eleven wins, one draw and three defeats means that they will not be short of confidence.

With so much at stake, it should be an exciting, competitive tussle.