GRAVESEND & Northfleet entertain newly promoted Bedford in the first of two Ryman League, Premier Division, fixtures which manager Andy Ford has described as being of greater importance than the club's forthcoming FA Cup, first round, tie at Huddersfield.

"These are vital games, especially the one at Basingstoke next Tuesday," said Fortd. "It's about time we got a good result there. The Cup tie against Huddersfield will count for nothing should we do badly in these two games. I've banned all mention of the Huddersfield game, under threat of a fine, from the dressing room because I want us fully focused on the league games."

Assistant manager Phil Handford watched Huddersfield at Oldham on Saturday and Ford and chairman Brian Kilcullen will watch them on Friday night at home to Notts County.

Ford hopes that skipper Jimmy Jackson will be fit to face Bedford after being carried off against Chelmsford on Saturday when he sustained a badly bruised shin. Matt Lee, now free from suspension, may return against Bedford as could Justin Skinner who has been troubled by a hamstring strain.

Gravesend and Northfleet Supporters' Association are running coaches to the FA Cup, first round tie, at Huddersfield on Saturday, November 17. Reservations can be made by ringing Jessica on 01634 201026 or Angela on 01474 351526.

Meanwhile, the Fleet have been drawn away to Cinderford of the Dr Martens League, Western Division, in the second round of the FA Umbro Trophy on Saturday, December 1.