GREAT Wakering Rovers will back themselves to take another step towards promotion this weekend when they make the trip to Wadham Lodge.

The Essex Senior League’s top side are currently four points ahead of Redbridge with five matches remaining.

Having accrued 53 more points that tomorrow’s opponents, Rovers are overwhelming favourites.

But manager Iain O’Connell is taking nothing for granted.

“We are confident but not over-confident,” he said. “We know league positions do not always mean a lot when it comes to results so we will respect the opponent.

“They are in a relegation battle so are desperate for points.”

Aaron Russell and Charlie Seaden return to the fold after long-term lay-offs.

Basildon United make the short trip to Parkside to play Tower Hamlets tonight after the latter requested to use the pitch for the clash.

The Bees are 11 points off top spot with two games in hand on the three sides above them.

And nothing less than three points will do in their bid to win promotion this term.

“I am really looking forward to playing at Parkside,” said manager Marc Harrison. “I have seen many games on it this season and it is very impressive.

“The biggest challenge is for the boys to offer me a real high-intensity performance from the beginning of the match.

Marcus Bowers and Matt Brinklow return.

Hullbridge Sports will fancy their chances at Burnham Ramblers, bidding to claim three points that would all be critical ahead of their bid to secure league status for next season.

Luke Hornsley and Matt Tapley will miss out for Sports, as Darren Manning’s team bid to move past a heavy 4-0 defeat in their last fixture.

Southend Manor make the trip to Waltham Forest looking to secure their own league status. Boss Adam Peek admits his squad is slightly depleted ahead of the clash. Alfie Lindfield, Mohamed Kargbo and John-Joe Slater are all doubts.