FANS have slammed the FA’s decision to stage this year’s county cup final at Thurrock’s Ship Lane ground.

Non-league Canvey will face the county’s highest-ranked team Colchester United in the showpiece event on April 16.

Gulls fans were hoping it might have been staged at Colchester’s West Homes Community Stadium after the U’s knocked out Concord in the semi-final.

Others called for it to be at Braintree’s Cressing Road, or for the match to make a return to either Southend United’s Roots Hall or Dagenham & Redbridge’s Victoria Road.

So the Essex FA’s announcement this week that it will be held at Conference South strugglers Thurrock’s base was met with some disappointment.

But Essex FA’s chief executive Phil Sammons said the choice of venue had received “positive feedback”.

He said: “Ship Lane is a tight and compact ground with four covered sides which enable supporters to generate a proper cup final atmosphere from the levels of attendances attracted to the match in recent seasons.

“Our experience from last year’s final, held at the same venue, is that it was a thoroughly enjoyable night for all involved, with a real sense of occasion.

“Ship Lane is one of the best developed grounds in the county, with professional facilities which provide everything that’s required at a cup final.

“It’s also a neutral location with direct access by road for both sets of supporters.

“Canvey Island and Colchester United have exhibited their desire to win the competition with some excellent performances so far and we look forward to witnessing more of that excitement in a keenly-contested final.”