Grays Ath return to Saturday afternoon action with a league encounter against Essex neighbours, Brentwood Town.

The history of football in Brentwood dates back to the late nineteenth century. After several decades in local leagues, the club progressed through the Athenian and Metropolitan Leagues, ending up in the mid 1960s as a professional outfit in the Southern League and a short period of real success, including an appearance in the 3rd round proper of the FA Cup in 1969-70. Shortly after however, the club was disbanded.

Another local club, Manor Athletic were founded in the late 1960s and in 1974 adopted the Brentwood name, playing in the Essex Senior League. Promotion to the Isthmian League was secured for the 2007-08 season. After a couple of near misses, the 2014-15 season saw the club promoted to the Premier division, although the stay lasted only one year, before returning to 1 North, where they remain.

We have played this incarnation of Brentwood Town more than 20 times, mostly in the Isthmian League, with the Blues taking the victory in the majority, although most had no more than the odd goal between the teams. Last season though both sides had comfortable home wins, 3-0 for Blues and 2-0 for Brentwood.

Given the geographical closeness of the two teams, there are a number of players who have pulled on both shirts, including Blues legend, Joao Carlos, and current midfielder Rob Clark.

This season, Brentwood have started positively, winning half of their league games, including four wins out of five away from home. So Grays can expect another strong challenge.

Come on you Blues !