PORTLAND United chairman Robin Satherley is hoping for a big crowd as the Blues do battle with fourth-placed Sholing at Grove Corner tomorrow (3pm).

The island chief also hailed the job done by manager Gary Bailey and his coaching staff, as the club continue in their quest to become Wessex Premier Division champions in their first season back in the league.

The Blues currently sit four points behind Moneyfields in the race for the title at present. But, with the league leaders set to face a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player back in January, Satherley’s “pipe dream” of seeing the island side capture the crown is still a big possibility.

The chairman told Echosport: “We have had superb support throughout the season from our supporters at home games. Once again, I am asking them to turn out in large numbers when we entertain fourth-placed Sholing at Grove Corner.

“Just over two months ago, we had a gate of 222 against Bashley and it would be fantastic if we could better that. Sholing have informed us they are bringing a coach load of supporters, so there should be a terrific atmosphere inside the ground.”

He added: “A crowd of more than 200 once again would certainly spur our players on as we enter a very critical period of the season with only four games to play, three of which are at home.

“Our manager Gary Bailey, his coaching staff and our players have really excelled themselves and I know our supporters are absolutely delighted with the entertaining football they have seen at Grove Corner this season.”

He continued: “My pre-Christmas prediction that the Blues would finish in the top six has certainly come to fruition.

“Unbeaten in the league since mid-October, we have been on a tremendous run, scoring our 100th league goal of the season on Saturday when defeating Cowes Sports 6-0.

“Eight points from our remaining four games will certainly ensure us runners-up spot.”

And speaking about the club’s chances of landing league silverware this season, Satherley said: “Winning the league title on our return to the Wessex Premier League after a 10-year absence may not be a pipe dream after all!”