Pagham boss Paul Gilbert hopes his young Lions can inflict a third league defeat on early division one leaders Burgess Hill tomorrow.

Gilbert will bank on his youngsters playing without fear in the battle of the top two at Leylands Park.

Gilbert said: "It is a big game for us. It is a benchmark of how far we have improved since last season.

"This is a big month for my side and I shall know better by the end of it where we are.

"However, without making too much of a big deal about it, I am surprised Burgess Hill have lost as many games as they have with the squad they have.

"No doubt, it is going to be very difficult for us but that gives us hope.

"We have quite a young team who don't necessarily understand what it is like to play against the top sides.

"They will go in to the game with their eyes open and this could work to our advantage if they are able to go out there and play without nerves.

"It definitely will be learning curve for them."

Bloor knows Hill are the team everyone wants to beat.

He said: "It is a cliche but this is just another game to me. There are only three points on offer, it is not like we are playing our Joker in It's A Knockout and there are double points on offer.

"Every team we meet consider this their cup final but we want to win every game and this one is no different. We keep scoring late goals and that is because we play for the full 90 minutes. It is no good running out of steam."

Both sides have injuries. Hillians expect midfielder Steve Harper to miss out after he limped off against Ringmer in midweek in his first match back from injury.

Striker Phil Churchill has a groin strain which makes him doubtful but Lee Isaac should play a part after recovering from a calf problem.

Gilbert is without Bryn Hauxwell (tendonitis) while Matty Beard and striker Adie Miles both have knocks.