John Allen can't wait for Rushall Olympic's game against league leaders

Two of the Evo-Stik Premier's surprise packages – the Pics are third with 39 points and two behind the visitors – meet tomorrow.

"At the end of the day, you dream about these games but we are coming into it on the back of a bit of a hiding at Buxton last weekend," said Allen.

"We have been working really hard in training and rest assured, we'll be firing on all cylinders.

"We would like a big crowd there to cheer us on.

"Whitby won't be bringing many down but we need our own contingent to turn out and be the 12th man for us."

As mentioned by Allen, Rushall were beaten 3-0 at second-placed Buxton last weekend in foggy conditions.

Their form over the course of the season so far has been impressive though and they have won seven of their 11 home games.

In terms of Whitby, three of their four losses have been on the road.

The Pics have strengthened their ranks recently with the additions of Karl Hawley and Lee Smith.

Hawley was the top scorer in the division last season at Stourbridge and made his debut at Buxton.

Smith has been snapped up this week from National League North outfit Tamworth.

He impressed for The Lambs but his progress was halted by an injury suffered at Gainsborough Trinity in September 2015, which led to him having his spleen removed.

"We have sent out a statement of intent by bringing in Karl Hawley," said Allen.

"A lot of clubs were in for him but we showed him around and he saw what we are about.

"He liked what he saw and I think what attracted him is our ambition and how we want to be at the top.

"A fit, firing Karl Hawley – any team would take him and we are certainly glad to have him.

"Lee Smith has come in from Tamworth this week.

"He is a good player, a good midfielder and should be available to make his debut.

"The squad is looking okay at the moment.

"There are still some players out with long-term injuries but otherwise everyone is fit and know what they need to do against Whitby."

Whitby go into the game without a win from their last two – losing 2-0 against Grantham Town on home soil before a 0-0 draw at Ilkeston.

They have the joint best defence in the division and, along with Blyth Spartans, have conceded just 19 goals so far this term.

"We are going to enjoy the occasion," added Allen.

"Whitby are a surprise package, really.

"At the start of the season, you would have expected the likes of Blyth Spartans to be up there but Whitby have came out of nowhere and surprised people.

"They have been fighting relegation in previous years but they have got it right this time around and there appears to be a good blend there between the players and the management.

"I know the guys at Whitby quite well and I wish them well but hopefully they come down here and they get beat."