IT is derby day in the Essex Senior League and Southend Manor bid to return to second-place against neighbours Basildon United.

Manor have enjoyed an excellent season to date and have won four of the last five league matches, albeit losing two of the last three in all competitions.

The Bees, currently in 10th, were beaten 3-0 by league leaders Barking on Tuesday but will take confidence from last Saturday’s 3-1 triumph over Ilford.

And Manor boss Stuart Marshall says his team will need to be at their best to win.

“I have watched Basildon in the last few weeks and they are a decent side and very good going forward.

“Fair play to (Basildon boss) Aaron (Bloxham), he has built a good team and we will need to be at our best to get something out of the game.”

While Manor are without several suspended players, Basildon are set to welcome back some key men.

“We hope to welcome back Jamie Brown and Alf Lindfield from long-term injury which will be a massive boost.

“I want a reaction from Tuesday’s defeat but it will be a good test for us.”

Hullbridge Sports host West Essex as they bid to finish the season strongly.

It has been a mixed start to the year for Sports, but a resounding 3-0 win at Tower Hamlets on Monday night will boost them ahead of 15th-placed West Essex’s visit.

Sports have a clean bill of health for the match.