EASTLEIGH are letting fans in free of charge for their Vanarama National League showdown with Maidstone United next Tuesday (October 4, 7.45pm).

Since former Tranmere and Rotherham boss Ronnie Moore took over as manager last month, the Spitfires have barely put a foot wrong, reeling off five wins and two draws to surge to the brink of the play-off places. All told, they are unbeaten in eight.

The extraordinary growth in the club’s fan base was demonstrated again on Saturday when a crowd of 2,853 – including free-entry students - flocked in for a gripping 2-1 win over Sutton United, featuring an extraordinary goalkeeping performance by new signing Ryan Clarke.

Now the ambitious club want even more new recruits to join their growing army of fans as they seek to push themselves towards the Football League promise land.

Addressing supporters in Saturday’s matchday programme, Eastleigh's chief executive Mark Jewell said: “You are an amazing group of fans and we are very lucky to have you. Tell all your friends the future’s bright down Stoneham Lane way!”

And following the Sutton game, Moore's right-hand man Kevin Watson tweeted: "2,800 through the gate. Great effort from the @eastleighfc fans. Your support has been superb. Lads appreciate it!!"

Eastleigh’s record home attendance is 5,205, set in January for their 1-1 FA Cup draw with Bolton Wanderers.

This Saturday (October 1, 3pm) Moore’s Spitfires make the short trip to Woking.