SOUTHEND Saxons fly half Tom Ashton is keen to continue his successful comeback from injury when Clifton visit Warners Bridge for a crunch National Two South clash this weekend.

The 31-year-old made his first start since recovering from a broken collarbone in Saturday’s stunning 25-19 win at Dorking on Saturday.

And he is now desperate to secure more of the same against Clifton as Southend continue their fight against relegation. “It felt great to be back starting again and getting such a good result,” said Ashton.

“I had played 20 minutes the week before at Cambridge but Dorking was my first start and it was great to be back properly.

“I had been out for five weeks before those games with a broken collarbone and I really don’t enjoy watching on.

“I hate not being able to influence a game so I’m really enjoying being out there again.

“Being honest I am still getting some pain in my shoulder but it’s manageable and I’ll be fine again for tomorrow.”

Southend head in to this weekend’s clash sitting 12th in the table, just two points above the relegation zone.

However, they will be taking on 10th placed Clifton in good spirits after a fine performance and result at second placed Dorking last weekend.

“The match at Dorking was really enjoyable and pleasing as we physically dominated them for large periods,” said the former King Edmund School pupil.

“With a little more confidence and concentration we probably should have won by more but a win was brilliant and gave us a real boost.”

Ashton, himself, was also boosted by the recall.

And he also loved lining up at fly-half.

“My favourite position is at 10 as I feel I can contribute more,” said Ashton.

“It's a good role to play behind such a dominate pack but of course I’m happy to be playing anywhere, especially after being out with the injury.”

Ashton therefore cannot wait to take on Clifton, who have lost four of their last five games.

And the former Rochford Hundred man is confident of picking up another good result.

“We go into the Clifton game knowing that we have to execute our game plan and turn up with the right attitude,” said Ashton.

“We need to apply ourselves right from the first whistle and, if we do, then we will be rewarded for that.”

Southend have no new injury concerns for the game and have selected an unchanged squad.