NEIL Blackburn has challenged Basildon United to win their first match since September.

The Bees are without a victory since overcoming Dereham Town, a run stretching back 16 matches in all competitions.

And Blackburn, who replaced joint-managers Lee Connor and Michael Walther at the helm last month, wants Basildon to return to winning ways when Brentwood Town visit the Ho Ho Stadium tomorrow.

“It’s important to start getting the points on the board because it’s a long time since we last won a game,” said the Bees boss.

“I’ve been here for four games but it was quite a while before that when the club last tasted victory, so we need to get out of the rut we’re in.

“Sometimes it feels like nothing is going for you, with the ball not dropping for you and decisions not going your way, but it’s important that we get back to winning ways.

“I have known the Brentwood manager, Craig Shipman, for a number of years and he has done a great job there.

“We know it will be a tough game, like they all are in this division, but we’re quietly confident ahead of the next run of games.”

Basildon, who are 13th in the standings, prepared for the home clash with 11th-placed Brentwood by competing in a friendly with Forest Glade’s under-21s.

But the Bees will be unable to call on Callum Taylor, who is still suspended after being dismissed at Barking earlier this month.