Lovell looking for repeat result

The last time Hastings took on a team in the runners-up spot was only a couple of weeks ago when Metropolitan Police rolled into town. On that occasion the Blues were overwhelmed 3-0 and returned to their Surrey base with their tails between their legs.

Lovell said: "They were expected to come down and take all three points. I think we surprised them and I'm hoping to do the same thing again on Saturday.

"We need another good performance like the one against Met Police if we are to get anything because Bromley are not second in the table for nothing. They will be hard to break down but as I told the players I don't fear anyone, not even AFC Wimbledon (the early leaders who have yet to drop a point in Ryman Division One)."

Hastings currently lie in sixth position and a win on Saturday September 11 would see them leapfrog their opponents but to achieve this they will have to cope with the threat posed by Bromley in the air. "They are land of the giants, they are massive," said Lovell. "If you thought Met Police were a big side they are even bigger so it's important that we get our game going.

"It will be a physical game so we've got to win our battles and hopefully our football will come through. They play very direct, play for corners and free kicks. It's something we know about but if we can contain them on set pieces and get the ball down and pass it around as we can do then it should work out alright for us."

Ryan Peters retains his place in midfield after shaking off an injury picked up in the FA Cup win over Croydon last weekend. Jon Wallis and Dexley Fidyk are also available after recovering from injury, but Steve Ringwood is still a week away from fitness.

Hastings continue their league programme on Tuesday with a trip to Whyteleafe.