SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown was disappointed to miss out on his first ever Essex derby after his side drew Chester in the FA Cup.

Brown revealed he was delighted to have been drawn at home in the first round of the competition.

But he had his heart set on playing another local side.

“I would’ve loved it if we had been drawn to play Concord Rangers or East Thurrock United because that would’ve been a great occasion for our area,” said Brown.

“However, we’ve been drawn at home which we have to be happy about and we will be favourites because we’re playing against a non league side.

“We’re going to have to be comfortable with that mantle but I’ve had many battles with Chester during the years and I’m sure this will be another one.”

Chester are currently 13th in the Conference and have been beaten just once in their last five games.