CHRIS Vaughan insists Southend Saxons remain fired up for tomorrow’s National Two South clash with Bishop’s Stortford despite them no longer being able to stay up.

Saxons’ relegation was finally confirmed by last weekend’s 36-15 defeat at table-topping Cambridge.

But Vaughan is still desperate for Southend to triumph in their final home game of the campaign.

“We have been looking forward to this game since the final while against Cambridge last weekend,” said the centre.

“Last week was actually one of the best team performances we have produced all season and we are hoping to carry that into this weekend so we can get our first win over Bishop’s Stortford.”

However beating Stortford will not be an easy task for the second-from-bottom Saxons as they currently sit third in the standings and have won 20 of their 28 games so far this term.

And Vaughan is certainly expecting a tough test.

“As usual it’s going to be a difficult game against Bishop’s Stortford,” said the former King John School pupil.

“They are a very well drilled side and they’re having a good season but it’s our last home game of the season and it’s one we obviously want to win.”

After that, Southend will finish their campaign away at Chinnor before attention turns towards next season.

And Vaughan believes it is essential Saxons push for promotion from National Three London & SE “It’s very important we bounce back,” said Vaughan.

“If we keep the majority of our side with a good coach coming in as well then I don’t see why we can’t go straight back up either.

“That will certainly be our aim for next season.”