SOUTHEND & EMT and Hadleigh & Thundersley Cricket Clubs will renew acquaintances as they start their seasons in the League Cup this weekend.

The two Shepherd Neame Essex League Division One sides will be going head to head for the first time this term in the 45 over clash at John Burrows Park.

And Southend skipper Joe Robbins is keen to get off to a good start.

“A good start is paramount,” said Robbins.

“Early wins in whatever sport will always give you huge confidence going forward so it is vital we can get some wins on the board early, as it is extremely difficult to play catch up at this level with the quality of the league this year.

“But we are thoroughly looking forward to the start of the season and we will be taking this cup as seriously as the league campaign.

“I think it's a great draw for us playing our local neighbours Hadleigh too.

“It gives us a really competitive game of cricket before the league season starts and that is exactly what we need and what pre season is all about.”

Southend finished fifth in the standings last season and have been boosted by the summer signing of Jack Wagstaff and Daniel Ingham who is coming from New Zealand to play.

But Hadleigh are also looking to impress again this season.

And their skipper Adam Soilleux is keen to build on the fine third placed finish his team secured last time around.

“You've got to always look to improve on the previous season and since we finished third last year that means promotion,” said Soilleux.

“However we are aware that the league is looking even stronger this year and is likely to be even more competitive than before.

“Therefore we know we are going to have to play well all season to firstly consolidate our place in the league, and even more so if we want to finish near the top spots.”

Hadleigh have all rounder Matt Lewis in their squad this season after he impressed in the under 19 team last term while overseas player Kellon Carmichael has returned after also doing well last year.

Hadleigh have also trained well during the winter and Soilleux is keen to put that to good use in the League Cup clash with Southend.

“It's the first competitive game of the season so of course we want to win but I expect a close game,” said Soilleux.

“Every game between ourselves and Southend was very closely fought so hopefully we'll have more good games this season.

“Joe and I are keen to battle hard on the pitch but keep it at that.

“There's been some friction off the field in recent times but looking to put that behind us and for everyone to enjoy their cricket so it's good to see two local teams performing well and looking strong going into the 2015 season.”

The new league season gets underway for both teams on Saturday May 9.