GRAVESEND go into tomorrow night's Ryman League, Premier Division championship showdown against leaders Canvey at Stonebridge Road boosted by Saturday's win over fifth placed Grays.

Canvey remain clear of the Fleet purely on goal difference but Andy Ford's side crucially have a game in hand. The club are anticipating a huge crowd for tomorrow's visit of Canvey.

Watched by a crowd of 920, Fleet skipper Jimmy Jackson celebrated his 400th appearance by opening the scoring in the 16th minute when he fired past former Southend goalkeeper Mel Capleton.

Grays, with the pacy Nathan Thomas and Merv Abrahams a constant threat up front, were always in the game, though Thomas wasted a glorious chance of an equaliser when he was forced wide by goalkeeper Jamie Turner.

Steve McKimm's powerful run should have increased the Fleet's lead but Darren Smith shot wide.

Justin Skinner, who was outstanding for the Fleet, was out of luck with a shot that rocked the Grays woodwork in the 48th minute but four minutes later sealed victory with a rare goal.

With all three of their substitutes on, Grays were reduced to 10 men in the 61st minute when defender Alan Keeper collided with Capleton and had to go off.

"With the Canvey game coming up on Tuesday this was an excellent result and all credit to the players," said Fleet assistant manager Phil Handford. "Grays, beat us earlier in the season and are a fit and physical side.

"They were no pushovers and we're satisfied with the outcome."

Gravesend: Tuner; Lee, Skinner, McKimm, Burton, Duku, Smith, Owen, Wilkins, Stadhart, Jackson. Substitutes: Parker for Wilkins, Williams for Smith. Not used: Barnett.

Attendance: 920.