Ebbsfleet go into this weekend’s final home game of a long and tortuous season knowing they need a miracle to survive in Blue Square Premier.

After Saturday’s 2-0 loss at Rushden, Fleet need to win their final two games, at home to Gateshead this Saturday and at Tamworth next weekend and hope they can overhaul Forest Green and Gateshead in the table.

The club are hoping to attract a bumper crowd for the Gateshead clash and will allow season ticket holders to bring a friend to the game for free, using the voucher originally intended for the game against Chester, who were expelled from the league.

Vice-chairman Roly Edwards (picture) said: "Never say never but it looks like the odds are stacked against us.

"We need to win both our games and hope that Forest Green and Gateshead lose theirs.

"It is going to be tough, there is no doubt about it, but we’ll give it our best."

Mr Edwards admitted he "fears it would not be a quick process back" if Saturday’s game is the final one in Blue Square Premier at Stonebridge Road.

He added: "This season has been a real struggle for everyone.

"A win at home to finish off would be a good day. I’m sure Liam and the players will be going all-out to do that.

"It is a winnable game and hopefully by the time we play Tamworth next week, they will be safe and we might be able to get a victory up there and who knows?"

Fleet have Dean Pooley available after suspension.