This is our cup final

The sides are separated by just three points and Leek have a game in hand.

The prize for the winner is to stay clear of 19th place in the UniBond League Premier Division, for the team which finishes fourth bottom this season could also face relegation as adjustments are made to the size of division in the football league's pyramid.

"It's a massive game this weekend," said Ashcroft. "I would like get as many people as we can through the gates.

"It would be nice to get 400 to 500 in to get behind the lads, as the people of Kendal also have big part to play in keeping us in this division.

"I also believe that if we stay up and keep the players we have now we will have a good shout at promotion next year."

He believes that the draw at table-topping AFC Telford a fortnight ago was a major turning point in club fortunes.

"I have brought so many new faces in that only three players started at Telford who were in the last manager's last game.

"With so many changes it can take time to get the balance right, but they just clicked for the game and I hope they will continue to do so for the last eight games of the season.

"Things don't happen overnight, but at last they seem to be going right," he said.

"Everyone is fully fit and obviously the lads did very well against Telford, so it is more than likely that I will go with the same side," said Ashcroft.

"They played that well that is only right that they keep their places.

"We are really looking forward to the game with Leek. The lads have trained really well and since the Telford game there is a buzz about the place again, so hopefully we can get the three points we desperately need on Saturday.

"I went to watch Leek last week when they drew with Burscough.

"I couldn't believe it when they won midweek at Lincoln.

"They are not one of the better sides in the league, but they are picking up points and at this stage of the season that's all you need to be doing.

"As I said this one is our cup final."