NIK Grier wants to continue enjoying his return to Southend Saxons with a win at Old Elthamians this weekend.

The 29-year-old hooker came back to Southend in the summer after two seasons with Blackheath.

And he is already relishing lining up for the Saxons once again.

“I got contacted by Chris Green over the summer about a possible return to Southend which I felt I was ready to do,” said Grier.

“With the coaching set up and the standard of players I would be playing alongside it felt like the right time to return.

“Plus the fact I'm playing rugby with some of my closest mates is an honour.”

Grier has started all seven of Southend’s games so far this season.

And, having been beaten just twice so far, the Langdon Hills based Grier has been encouraged by the opening few matches of the campaign.

“I’m pleased with the start we have made to the season,” said Grier.

“We've had seven hard games and our results have definitely surprised a few people.

“We’re also playing a good brand of attacking rugby and long may that continue.”

Southend’s start has also seen them move up to eighth in the National Two South standings, one place below their hosts this weekend.

And Grier is therefore expecting another tough encounter tomorrow.

“Saturday will be another hard test but we are looking forward to it,” said Grier.

“Old Elthamians invested a lot into their side this summer, bringing in a lot of players.

“It will be a challenge but I'm confident in our ability as a team.”

Old Elthamians have triumphed four times in seven games this term and won 27-24 at struggling Redingensians last weekend.

In contrast, Southend drew 34-34 with high-flying Clifton.

But Grier remains disappointed not to have won.

“It felt like a defeat at the end because we knew we should have won as we were the better team,” said the hooker.

“However, to come back like we did after being 21-7 down at half time against a team who are second and are meant to have gone full time was encouraging “There are a lot of positives to take from that and we will do so heading in to the game tomorrow.”