OLD Southendian & Southchurch are looking to close the gap on the promotion places when they do battle with Oakfield Parkonians tomorrow.

The Old Boys’ three match winning streak came to an end last weekend when they were beaten by Hainault & Clayhall, although captain Aaron Lucas remained upbeat after the defeat with his team sitting fourth in Division Two.

They now welcome second-placed Oakfield to Garon Park, having both competed in Division Three last season.

Both teams have made enormous strides this campaign and Lucas admits he is looking forward to renewing their rivalry tomorrow afternoon.

“They are having a good year and we came up with them last year,” said Lucas. “We know them well and came out on with a winning draw and a win last year. We are confident and feel strong so I look forward to getting underway.

“Our match at their place last season was similar to last Saturday to be honest,” he added. “We should have won but we didn’t. They are a good side and we need to play at the level of the weeks before if we are to get the result we want.”

Victory for Old Southendian could see them move to within 15 points of the top two, while a win for the away side would really cement their place as title challengers.

Leigh-on-Sea are desperate for the right result when they welcome Hutton to Chalkwell Park tomorrow.

Dean Waller’s men are second-bottom and 19 points from safety in the division, with victory tomorrow essential as they look to beat the drop.

Hutton have been on a slump in recent weeks and are only 20 points above tomorrow’s opponents ahead of play.

With both losing their last two matches, something has to give.

Wickford are in even more desperate need of points, as they remain rooted to the foot of the table.

They welcome Harlow Town to the Patmore Memorial Sports Ground as they bid to end a run of five straight defeats, while knowing even victory will not see them move up the standings.

Horndon-on-the-Hill are hovering third from bottom, and play Gidea Park & Romford, third from the top, as they bid to get their season back on track.