JASON Bristow wants the people of Basingstoke to turn out in force for his side’s big Conference South clash at home to Dover Athletic on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

The Basingstoke Town manager, pictured, expects the Kent club to bring a large number of fans to the Camrose and wants the home support to help his side by winning the battle on the terraces.

“I think Dover will bring a few supporters with them and it would be great if we could get a good crowd, out-sing them and cheer on the lads,” Bristow said.

“Over the last couple of weeks we have turned the corner and we are working hard behind the scenes. We want strong support from the stands and hopefully we can repay that on the pitch.”

Despite a good start to the season, recent attendances at the Camrose have been low, with just 281 watching the victory over Boreham Wood earlier this month.

Part of the reason Bristow has adopted a more expansive, passing game is to attract more supporters. He believes that people visiting the ground for the first time on Saturday will be pleasantly surprised by the quality of the football on show.

“We believe in playing attractive football and for large parts of the season we have managed that,” Bristow added.

“If people have not been down to the Camrose recently, I think they will be surprised by the standard and quality of football that we play. I would encourage people to come along and see for themselves.”

Having beaten Boreham Wood and Dorchester in their last two games, Town will be looking to make it three wins on the bounce when Dover come calling on Saturday.

However, the Kent side, beaten play-off finalists last season, are sure to provide a tough test. The teams go into the game level on points, with Dover seventh and Town eighth in the Conference South table.

“It’s a big game because there could be a three-point swing either way,” Bristow said. “It’s an important game for both sides but we are in a confident mood.

“It’s a good test for us. It will be tough but the last two games have proved that we are a side that can work hard and play well, while keeping two clean sheets is promising and something to build on.”

Visit basingstokegazette .co.uk/sport for live updates from the Camrose on Saturday.