VALENTINE’S Day won’t be remotely romantic for Brockenhurst unless they can rediscover their passion and passing prowess at Petersfield Town.

The New Forest club have landed the perfect destination tomorrow (Saturday), away at the Rams’ aptly-named Love Lane home.

But after turning in what manager Pat McManus branded an “abject” display in the 1-1 draw at bottom club Totton & Eling last Saturday, they know a repeat performance could end in a heart-breakingly heavy defeat against the Wessex Premier leaders.

With nearest rivals Moneyfields faltering, Petersfield have surged six points clear at the Sydenhams summit.

Since beating Brock 4-1 at Grigg Lane on November 22, they have won eight and drawn three of their last 11 games.

In fact the mighty Rams – managed by one-time Brock boss Ian Saunders – have lost only twice in the league all season, their last defeat coming at Whitchurch on October 15.

“Petersfield look like favourites to win the league now – and it’s deserved as well,” said McManus.

“They’re always well organised and if we go there tomorrow and give them as much of the ball as we did Totton & Eling, we’ll get walloped,” he warned.

“Totton & Eling worked ever so hard and fully deserved a point – if not more.

“Apart from the last ten minutes, we spent most of the game giving the ball back to them.

“To get anything out of tomorrow we’ve got to play well, that’s for sure. It’s just a shame we’re going to be a bit light.

“We’re definitely without (central defender) Joe Chamberlain, who’s away on a birthday weekend, and (midfielder) Tom Hill is struggling with a groin strain.

“We thought it was a hernia at first and he went to the doctor’s and was told to rest.

“We missed (midfielder) Brad Magookin with a sickness bug last week and he should be okay tomorrow and we may well have Martin Warren back available up front.

“But we’re a bit short defensively with Murray Holmes and Martyn Randall out and Chambo away.

“We can’t afford for anyone else to drop out.”

Brockenhurst’s latest recruit is midfielder Matt Vokes – younger brother of Burnley striker Sam.

Vokes, 22, is a former AFC Bournemouth apprentice who has also played for Lymington Town and Bashley.