Folkestone Invicta are gearing up for a huge lunchtime date with Ryman League big boys Guernsey at the re-opened Fullicks Stadium this weekend.

Saturday’s game against the Green Lions kicks off at 12.45pm, with both sides determined to gain the upper hand in the race for promotion.

Storm damage had forced the stadium to close over Christmas and the New Year but Shepway District Council’s contractors have worked hard to make it safe this week.

And with Folkestone looking to extend their 12-match unbeaten run at home and Guernsey flying high in their first season at this level, it promises to be a real blockbuster.

The Invicta players went without their wages to help the club pay its bills earlier this month and manager Neil Cugley has called on the fans to repay that loyalty.

He said: "That only goes to show what a great bunch of lads we’ve got here now. They really deserve a good atmosphere to play in and it can only help push us onto the play-offs.

"I really do hope people come and watch us now it seems that we may be past this problem. The more people who come and watch us, the better the spirit and atmosphere around the club.

"We’ve been playing some really good football and scoring plenty of goals in the last couple of months. When they’re playing like that, these players really deserve to be watched by more people."

Folkestone travel to Eastbourne Town tonight (Wednesday). Defender Frankie Chappell, who missed Saturday's 2-0 win at Merstham with a thigh injury, will have a fitness test before the game.