Betting men would doubtless plump for a draw on Saturday when Hayes & Yeading United visit Conference South strugglers Havant & Waterlooville, although such a result would do little to achieve either club's current aims.

Before United's game at AFC Wimbledon last night (Tuesday) the two teams numbered seven draws from their last nine league games combined, yet while H&Y are riding high in the division, H&W have massively underachieved.

The Hawks were among the pre-season favourites for the title but they find themselves just one place and two points clear of the relegation zone, having won only six of their 25 games.

However, just like United's recent opponents Basingstoke Town, the Hawks have been shopping in a bid to claw their way out of trouble.

The Hampshire club has signed 20-year-old midfielder Wes Fogden from Dorchester Town on a two-year deal and brought in Portsmouth winger Louie Castles, 18, on work experience, having played under similar terms for Conference South rivals Bognor Regis Town.

Will Hendry misses the game as he completes a two-game suspension while the Hawks are without skipper Jamie Collins who is also sitting out his second game. Collins is a central midfielder with eight goals this season in all competitions including six from the penalty spot.

At the same time AFC Hayes attempt to rack up their fourth successive Southern League win in Division One South and West and in the process complete the double over Slough Town, whom they defeated 3-2 in November.

Victory could take Joe Mitchell's improving team into the top half of the table for the first time this season and possibly above neighbours Uxbridge, if the Reds slip up at second bottom Bracknell Town.

Uxbridge are then due to travel to play Paulton Rovers at 7.30pm on Monday, three weeks after the original clash was postponed.

In Ryman One North Northwood go in search of an eighth win from 10 league games away to mid-table Cheshunt at the weekend, while struggling Hillingdon Borough host Leyton.