Dover will be backed by almost 2,500 fans at Gillingham on Saturday and boss Martin Hayes wants the players to make them proud.

The eagerly-anticipated FA Cup first round match takes place at Priestfield as Hayes’ men take on a Gills team led by former Whites manager Andy Hessenthaler.

Hayes (pictured) said: "We want to put a performance on for the supporters and to make sure they go home proud of their side.

"The support we have is phenomenal for a small non-league club and we’ll have around a third of the gate. We just want to give them something to cheer."

Dover have already seen off Erith Town, Cambridge City and Farnborough to get this far and Hayes knows it’s a great platform for his side to prove their worth.

"Anyone could make a name for themselves," he said.

"It’s a big shop window for the players and a chance for them to show some of the full-time lads that they can cut it.

Dover boss Martin Hayes looks forward to the Gillingham match

"There’s a team every year who upset the odds. This is an opportunity for us and we need to try and grab it. We’ll be giving it a good go.

"I’m confident that if we do well and they are not at their best, we could sneak something."

Tom Wynter (ankle) faces a fitness battle to face his former club, while Elliot Charles (hamstring) is a major doubt. Olly Schulz is back from suspension.