BASILDON & Pitsea captain Michael Gray says his team will need to raise their game if they are to remain in Division Two this season.

Gray’s team were promoted from Division Three last term, and they are now looking to consolidate their position in the second tier.

A match against Loughton, relegated last year, is their first test at Mopsies Park, and Gray says a good start could set the tone for the season ahead.

“It will be a tough year,” he said. “We are hoping people will step up. Only two or three of us hit top form last year and we will need more this year.

“We need to enjoy it as well but a mid-table finish and consolidation would constitute a positive season.

“Loughton got relegated from Division One so they will be looking to go back up.

“It is a baptism of fire but we will embrace the challenge of course.”

All-rounder Craig Thompson bolsters the Basildon & Pitsea attack this year.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian & Southchurch will look to build on a good campaign last year when they return to the field against Horndon-on-the-Hill.

The Old Boys were in with a shout of promotion until the closing weeks of last season, despite only winning promotion the previous campaign.

Horndon struggled for much of last season and played out a draw in the closing weeks in 2016, Damien Sweet scoring a superb 103 that day.

Wickford host Hutton as they bid for an improved season, as they look to return to Division One following a three year absence.

Wickford won six of their last seven matches last year to ensure their place in the division.

And they will be keen to start this season better in similar fashion.