MIKE Stanley has been passing on tips to Southend Saxons ahead of their visit to Bishop’s Stortford in National Two South tomorrow.

Stanley was recently capped by Samoa at international level and lined up against England at Twickenham.

But Stanley, who played for Southend at either centre and fly-half up until last season, has been back at Warners Bridge in a coaching capacity this week.

And Saxons’ Brad Burr felt the training sessions were of huge benefit.

“The coaching from Mike was really beneficial,” said Burr.

“Mike has gained so much knowledge since leaving us and his analysis of the game has picked up some points we were seeing past.”

Southend will be looking to put that in to action at fourth placed Bishop’s Stortford this weekend.

And Burr believes the team will head in to the game having been lifted by the impressive 18-8 win against Taunton last Saturday.

“That win has given everyone’s spirits a massive boost,” said Burr, who kicked superbly well in the hard fought triumph.

“We played terribly both times we played Bishop’s Stortford last year so we're looking to right some wrongs.

“I know they have a few lightning backs though so it will be an exciting game but it’s one we are looking forward to.”

Southend head in to the game in 13th place Bur Burr is confident Saxons can soon start to work their way up the standings.

“We’ve had loads of injuries and pretty much a different team every week so far this season,” said the 21-year-old.

“Hopefully we can get some stability now and take our win against Taunton forward for this weekend and then the rest of the season as well.”

Burr also wants to help that happen by continuing his own fine form.

The youngster, who has been with Southend for the past three seasons, has switched between fly-half and centre this term.

And he has enjoyed changing roles.

“It's been fun, especially in defence,” said Burr.

“At fly half you always get people trying to run over you so it's not very testing, but at outside centre it's the opposite.

“So it's really helped me in that sense and I don’t mind where I play.”