Deal boss Derek Hares wants to start the New Year as they ended the old one following an enforced three week lay-off due to the weather and Christmas break.

Town entertain Bulmers Cider Kent League Premier Division bottom side Lordswood on Saturday, having not played since December 12, which kicks off a busy month of league and cup action.

Hares said: "We had a good finish to the year and I want us to start 2010 the same way.

"Consistency is key for us because on our day we are as good as any other team in the league.

"We won 1-0 at Lordswood in November which was Jason Lillis’ first game in charge and the side we face on Saturday could be completely different."

Striker Mo Takaloo and goalkeeper Paul Rogers are both ruled out because of suspension.

Takaloo sits out one game following five bookings, while Rogers completes a two-match ban, held over due to the Faversham game being postponed. Brad Ashmore continues to deputise

Defender Michael Cassar is set for a run-out in the reserves, after being sidelined for a month with calf problems.