Martin Hayes is desperate to fulfil his dreams and guide Dover on a memorable FA Cup run.

The Whites host Cambridge City in the third qualifying round on Saturday, with a win taking them within 90 minutes of the first round proper where they could face the likes of Southampton or Charlton Athletic.

Hayes (pictured) is a huge fan of the FA Cup and is eager to guide Dover to the first round – and maybe beyond.

"I desperately want us to do well," he said.

"The FA Cup is what dreams are made of, it’s a massive competition. To get to the first round would be great.

"The players get their five minutes of fame, the supporters get a day out and the football club get a big load of money.

"We’re at home, the fans will get behind us and it’s a great opportunity to get into the next qualifying round.

"It’s not a distraction, it’s a big opportunity. Hopefully, we can bounce back immediately and get the game against Hampton out of our system."

Hayes watched in disbelief as the Whites succumbed to their first away defeat of the season – 3-2 against Hampton and Richmond on Saturday.

However, he believes a cup clash against Cambridge is the perfect tonic.

"It’s a good chance to banish memories of Hampton," he said. "Cambridge City are a good side but I’m happy with the draw.

"They won’t be too worried about us if they watched us on Saturday but if we cut the silly mistakes out and attack them, we should be OK."

Hayes welcomes striker Ben Hunt back to the fold, while midfielder Sam Long is hoping to be fit after recovering from injury.