Match Preview

This Saturday, Grays make the short trip down the A13 to take on local rivals Basildon United in their latest Isthmian League encounter.

The game will be Blues manager, Darren Manning’s, first visit back to his previous club, from which he joined Grays before Christmas.

Basildon have been one of the surprise packages this season in Isthmian North, being at the upper end of the table all season. Central to their success has been their home form at Gardiners Close. This includes winning five of their last six games, the only reverse being an unexpected reversal against Ipswich Wanderers. The Bees away fixtures have though been far less productive leaving them midway in the overall form table.

The reverse game earlier in the season was a Friday night under the lights at Chadfields, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Kye Jude’s early goal for the visitors was cancelled out by Charlie Stimson just after the break.

Earlier in the season, it was former Blue, Kai Brown finding the net regularly for Basildon. Now Samir Ali has taken over the mantle, with 13 goals so far.

Both sides will be looking to take the three points - Basildon looking to keep pace with the race for playoff places, Grays to consolidate their position in the table.

Come on you Blues !