SOUTH-ESSEX’s non-league sides are gearing up for their final pre-season matches before this weekend’s big kick-off.

Concord Rangers have already completed their pre-season schedule, finishing with a 3-0 triumph over Millwall, but the rest of the non-league stars will be looking to cement their place in their manager’s starting line-ups for the start of the new season.

Canvey Island have had a hit-and-miss pre-season, winning only two of their eight matches so far although they have arguably been their toughest tests – against Gillingham and AFC Wimbledon sides. They come off the back of a 5-1 hammering at home to Dartford to face Maldon & Tiptree before the big kick-off at home against Bognor Regis Town this Saturday.

Billericay Town have impressed many in the last month, only losing to both Southend and Millwall XIs in their run-up to their mouth-watering derby opener against Grays Athletic.

Craig Edwards will fine-tune his starting line-up for the weekend by watching his team take on Jason Euell’s Charlton Athletic. New striker Chris Benjamin is expected to come back into the line-up as is Rowan Liburd – both of whom didn’t travel to Guernsey.

East Thurrock United travel to borough rivals Tilbury to compete in the Robbie Nash Memorial Trophy. The match is being held in memory of former Tilbury chairman and secretary Robbie Nash, who passed away in October 2013.

The game will be played at Chadfields.

Essex Senior League sides Bowers & Pitsea and Hullbridge Sports are the other two sides in action tonight. Bowers host White Ensign and Hullbridge Sports welcome Hannakins Farm today before they begin their campaign in four days time.