Heathcote's men have emerged from a nine-game winless stretch which had raised doubts over his future by taking seven points from the last nine in Blue Square Premier.
"Tomorrow's is a massive game for us because if we can beat Ebbsfleet, we really will be able to say we can live with anyone in this division," said Heathcote.
"But if any of my players think they can now take their foot off the pedal, I can assure them we'll come unstuck.
"Ebbsfleet might not be one of Blue Square Premier's more fashionable clubs, but they are a very good side, as their record shows."
Heathcote has trimmed his squad by releasing both Richard Battersby and recently-signed ex-United starlet Paul Tierney, who failed to live up to expectations.
His only injury concern lies with striker Joe O'Neill (knee).
Meanwhile, rock- bottom Northwich, who have won only once, will be even more hard pressed than Alty to get a result when they visit Kettering.
But Stalybridge will look to step up their Blue Square North promotion challenge by beating struggling Redditch at Bower Fold.
Hyde United, still pointless on the travels, face a daunting trip to third-placed Tamworth, while Droylsden are away to fellow draw specialists Alfreton.
Faltering UniBond premier high-fliers Ashton United will fancy their chances of returning to winning ways at home to lowly Ossett.
Leigh, who are now just a point behind their Hurst Cross rivals in sixth place, go to Buxton.
Managerless Salford City, who have named Wayne Goodison as caretaker-boss following the exit of Gary Fellows, entertain Gresley Rovers in the FA Trophy's first qualifying-round, in which there are also home ties for Chorley, Mossley, Trafford and Woodley.
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