SOUTH Essex’s non-league sides kicked off their pre-season schedules on Saturday as they build up to another busy season.

Billericay Town had the glamour tie of a trip to National League side Dover Athletic and they put on a good display until the Kent side showed their quality after the break.

Town had gone into the break 2-1 down, after French striker Alex Maitrepierre had pulled a goal back shortly before the break.

But two second-half goals saw the game finish 4-1.

A youthful Concord Rangers drew 1-1 at Ryman North side Waltham Abbey, with a new face getting on the scoresheet for the Beach Boys.

Midfielder Dean Mason, a recent acquisition from Lowestoft Town, got Concord’s first goal of pre-season after 15 minutes.

But a strike from Yemi Adelani shortly after half-time ensured the game ended a draw.

Bowers & Pitsea beat local rivals Hullbridge Sports 2-0 at the James Hornsby School with a goal in each half.

James Stevens’ first half free-kick and a late strike from Alfie Hilton handed Rob Small’s team their opening win of pre-season.

Great Wakering Rovers were given a masterclass in finishing by Southend United, who ran out 7-0 winners at Burroughs Park.

Basildon United were beaten 3-2 by Rayleigh Town at the Longman Motors Stadium.