DORCHESTER Town boss Callum Brooks is relishing the prospect of facing Evo-Stik Southern Premier South rivals Basingstoke Town at the Clayson Stadium tomorrow (3pm).

The Magpies host the Dragons with both teams fighting to avoid a relegation fight that encompasses 12 teams, all of whom are separated by just seven points from eighth to 20th.

Dorchester’s remarkable 7-1 win at injury-beleaguered Merthyr Town in midweek propelled Brooks’ men into 15th, one place and one point above Basingstoke and crucially three above the drop zone.

And with tomorrow’s fixture representing another relegation scrap, Brooks is revelling in the challenge as he steps out in front of his home fans for the first time since taking over as manager.

He told Echosport: “As a coach I relish that, I like being involved in big games and games that have a real meaning.

“I’ve assessed the group of players I’ve got and they’re also hungry to do well in big games, test themselves and push up the table.

“We’re probably a bit ahead of schedule. The first two games have gone a little bit better than people might have expected. As soon as I’ve seen these lads in training I knew they were capable of picking up the points.

“It’s key we build on it because I’m aware it can change quickly if we don’t keep doing the things we’ve been doing in the last two games.

“It’s a chance to put some daylight between us and the relegation zone and add to the confidence and momentum we’ve got.”

Brooks admitted it would be a “special moment” to manage the Magpies at home for the first time.

He said: “I can’t wait, it will be a special moment for me – my family will be at the game.

“I think we’ve shown that we’re going to give everything to the cause and we will be full of energy, passion and enthusiasm.

“I’d like to think after the last couple of games that’s enough to get people down there. Players respond to big crowds and people getting behind them.”

Brennan Camp and Joe Low are in contention, while Neil Martin (appendix) remains out.