SOUTHEND Manor manager Stuart Marshall has backed his team to earn a top five spot in the Essex Senior League this season, assuming they show more desire than they did in Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at Barkingside.

Manor were well beaten by Side, bringing to an end an excellent run of form which had seen them record five straight victories in the division.

They welcome Wadham Lodge to Southchurch Park this evening and will be favourites to take all three points against Lodge - nine places and nine points behind Manor in the standings having played two games more.

But Marshall says his players need to put in a better shift than they did on Saturday.

“We were beaten by the best side we have played against this season on Saturday,” he said. “Having said that, we had too many players who assumed we would just turn up and win.

“We had a lack of effort from several players and that isn’t acceptable.

“The boys have been fantastic in recent weeks but we let ourselves down on Saturday. Tonight will show me if we have anything about us in terms of hunger and determination.

“I will make a couple of changes to freshen things up.

“I think a top five is more than achievable if the players play correctly.”

Manor will have a full strength squad for the clash although will be without Callum Ibe, who is banned.

Basildon United welcome Sawbridgeworth Town to The Stuart Bingham Stadium, looking to build on Saturday’s 2-1 win at Stansted.

And manager Aaron Bloxham says his team, although five places and eight points better off than their opponents, must be on their guard.

“The mood in the camp is good but everyone has their feet on the ground and know the hard work must continue,” he said.

“Sawbridgeworth had a change of management this year and they have some very good players.

“Form probably says we are the favourites but that means nothing on the night. We must take our chances and do the right things and hopefully the result will follow.”

Striker Ayoola Odedoyin is an injury doubt although Bradley Nobbs, newly signed from Bowers & Pitsea, could make his debut.