THE National League Hampshire derby takes place this weekend when Eastleigh make the short trip to Aldershot Town.
Kelvin Davis’ Spitfires side started the season well but have suffered a series of setbacks in recent weeks to thwart their positive start.
Recent defeats to Forest Green Rovers and an FA Cup loss to Southend United mean that Eastleigh are in need of a change of momentum, starting with their trip to Aldershot on Saturday.
Maxwell Jordan Mullins struck a late winner for Saturday’s hosts as they reached the first round of the FA Cup by seeing off Bath City, despite going down to 10-men in the second half.
It has been a mixed beginning to the National league campaign for the Shots, who have not won in the league since beating Maidenhead United on August 31.
Scott Rendell, who has played for both clubs during his career, told Solent Sports News about the importance of this derby.
He said: “Any derby you play in is a special occasion. The Aldershot vs Eastleigh game is no different. Both have passionate fans and want to get one up on each other.
“You know if you come off on the wrong end of the result, you are going to get a little bit of extra stick probably. You hear about it a little bit more. It probably does mean a little bit more from both sides.
“I am sure both sets of players will be going out there to appease the fans a little bit more than usual. There are obviously extra tackles flying in.”
The Spitfires scored eight goals over the two league clashes last season, winning 3-0 and 5-3 in the process.
Speaking to Eastleigh’s official club media, Kelvin Davis admitted that he is expecting a “tough” game against Tommy Widdrington’s side.
He claimed: “It is three points we are after. It is an away fixture which will be a bit tougher.
“It is a game that we will prepare right for. If we can keep our fans happy and a few fans turn up. I’m sure they will be loud and supporting us as usual.
“We are looking forward to going there and having a positive performance and we will be as prepared as possibly can be.
“Hopefully the lads can take on the information we give them between now and Saturday and perform on the day.”
