PREMIER DIVISION

Southend & EMT’s stand in skipper Matt Wagstaff is seeking what he believes would be an important win against Ilford this weekend.

Eighth placed Southend head into the game just one place and seven points behind their opponents.

And Wagstaff is therefore keen to triumph in a game which will see him captaining the team in the absence of Joe Robbins.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity,” said Wagstaff.

“I have a couple of characters within the team that I know I can rely on to make some decisions.

“I have captained before but in this league and format there is a lot of decisions to make so I know the pressure will be on but I’m going to ignore it and just use instinct on the day.

“Overall, I’m excited to lead the team and I know the importance of a win because it would keep the momentum going.

“A winning streak of four or five games in the limited overs can really help when it comes to the last few all day games.”

Southend head into the match on the back of Saturday’s 22 run win against Shenfield.

And Wagstaff believes the win will see his side full of confidence this weekend.

“The win last weekend was a great team result,” said Wagstaff.

“Being able to defend a below par score really speaks volumes about the team cohesion and mentality we have within our squad.

“We will go into this weekend with confidence that we can get a win.”

However, Wagstaff believes Ilford will be tough to beat.

“We will have to be at our best as we are missing regular first team players,” said Wagstaff.

“But the boys stepping in are rich in confidence and want to prove a point.”