NEWPORT County manager Dean Holdsworth takes his troops to Dover tonight for tomorrow’s Blue Square South summit meeting hoping to celebrate his birthday in style.

The Exiles boss turns 41 on Sunday and his fortunes couldn’t be more different to a year ago when party-poopers Hayes & Yeading ran out 5-1 winners at Spytty Park to ruin his 40th celebrations.

That was a real low point for Holdsworth, a result which led many fans to call for his head, but 12 months on County sit proudly top of the table with a golden opportunity to extend their lead over second-placed Dover Athletic.

A victory over Andy Hessenthaler’s side, who have lost three successive home games in the league and FA Cup, would take them five points clear and send out a huge statement of intent to the rest of the promotion challengers but Holdsworth is keen to play down the significance of the match.

“I think the fans and you the media are talking this game up a bit too much,” he said.

“It’s a big game because it’s our next game but it’s no more important than last week or next week.

“It’s only three points up for grabs and nothing will be won or lost in November.

“We are going there to win but I don’t want to blow it out of all proportion,” he added.

Despite the manager’s appeals for some perspective on the game, it is clear that everyone at the club will make the 460-mile round-trip full of confidence.

Aside from long-term absentee Takumi Ake, who is continuing his rehabilitation and should return early in the New Year, Holdsworth has a full squad to pick from after training last night.

“We are all excited by the challenge. It’s a big test and we’re preparing properly by travelling the day before the game and staying overnight,” said Holdsworth.

“We’ve prepared all week to get a result and we’re more than capable of it.

“They’ve let in quite a few goals lately and it’s a real test of their mettle too. I’ve said all season it will take a good side to beat us and we’re up for the fight.”