MARGATE'S leading scorer Leon Braithwaite is facing a race against time to keep his FA Cup dream alive.

The striker sustained a broken jaw following a motorcycle accident last week but is desperate to play against Leyton Orient on Saturday, not least because he has strong family ties with the area.

Braithwaite underwent an operation on Friday during which he had two plates fitted in his jaw which has also been wired. But manager Chris Kinnear says the player is prepared to take a gamble by playing at Brisbane Road.

Kinnear said: “Leon wants to wear a face mask but I will leave any final decision to him."

If Braithwaite is unfit loan signing Leroy Griffiths, who made his debut in Saturday’s 1-1 home draw with Telford, could start for the Gate.

Should Saturday’s match end in a draw, the replay will be at Crabble on Tuesday, November 26, with a 7.45pm kick-off.