BASILDON United and Hullbridge Sports are looking to pick up where they left off when they two meet in the Essex Senior League tonight.

Both were victorious on Saturday - the Bees beating Wadham Lodge 2-1 and Manor triumphing 3-2 at Sporting Bengal United.

Sports chief Rob Hodgson oversaw his team’s first win of the current campaign, and said getting that victory was important ahead of the local derby at The Stuart Bingham Stadium.

“It was good to finally get our first win in the league, especially as I felt we should have got at least one win in our first two matches,” he said.

“We made hard work of it on Saturday, but we got over the line and getting the win was positive.

Basildon are doing really well at the moment and they have momentum with them which is always important.

“It will be a very close game, I am sure of it.”

Basildon are unbeaten in their four matches this season, marking an impressive start to Marc Harrison’s reign as manager.

And he praised his young side for their displays, while admitting Sports would pose a tough test.

“I am delighted with the start our young side has made to the season,” said Harrison.

“The average age of the squad is 22 and they have been very positive in everything they have done so far.

“Hullbridge are a very good side, and they have an impressive management team. It will be a tough fixture.”

Jack Main, Matt Brinklow and Charlie Kendall return, although Marcus Bowers, Darren Phillips and Grant Cumming return.