SOUTHEND Saxons begin life without Chris Green when they host winless Colchester in National Three London & SE tomorrow.

Green stepped down as the club’s director of rugby earlier this week after six seasons in charge at Warners Bridge.

And Southend skipper Marcus Bloomberg remains saddened by Green’s departure from the club.

“It came as a huge shock and it’s a sad day for Southend Rugby Club,” said Bloomberg on Green’s decision to leave.

“He is highly respected by myself and the players.

“He’s played a huge role in the development of a lot of the players at the club and I know he will be greatly missed.”

Nick Greenhall will continue to coach the Saxons this weekend.

And Bloomberg is determined for the side to not lose focus on Saturday’s Essex derby.

“What’s happened shouldn’t affect anything really and our preparation won’t change,” said the hooker.

“At the end of the day we as players are there to play rugby and I hope the boys can be professional about it and concentrate on the week ahead.”

Southend, who were relegated from National Two South last season, are currently 11th in the 14 team table and will be looking to end a run of two successive defeats this weekend.

But Bloomberg is expecting a difficult test against Colchester, despite them sitting second from bottom in the standings.

“Saturday will be a tough one,” said Bloomberg.

“Colchester have had a few close results with some of the in form teams in the league this season.

“I think it’s going to be a real test for two teams fighting for some important points.

“Having yet to win a game I’m sure they will be looking to get their first.

“But we will be looking to make a huge improvement on last week’s defeat at Guildford.

“A win with a bonus point is a must for us this weekend if we want to move up the table.”

Green’s departure was revealed by Echosport earlier this week.

And a Saxons spokesman has now expressed the club’s sadness at his decision to step down.

“Obviously we are sorry to see Chris leave us,” said the spokesman.

“He has given a lot to Southend Rugby Club in his time as a player, a coach, and as director of rugby.

“Chris is still highly committed to the club.

“And we are pleased that he is not leaving us entirely as he will continue in his role as commercial director.”

The club statement also revealed that there would be an interim period before a new director of rugby was appointed.