HAYDEN Smith insists Southend Saxons are focusing only on winning Saturday’s crucial clash at Colchester.

The two clubs are currently involved in an RFU investigation following an incident surrounding a touch-judge in the reverse fixture at Warners Bridge in October.

But second row Smith will not be thinking about any of that this weekend and is instead determined to record what would be an important National Three London & SE triumph.

“From my point of view all the off field stuff that’s happened is in the past and we are purely focusing on ourselves and our performance rather than anything else,” said the 21-year-old.

“Games like these are a must win and there are no excuses.

“We have to win and I’m confident we can deliver.

“The momentum and belief within the squad is building since Danny Cleare’s appointment.

“And it’s now down to us to start delivering results.”

Southend head into the encounter sitting 11th in the league table, four points and one place above Colchester who currently occupy the final relegation position.

But Smith is still expecting a difficult afternoon.

“We are expecting a tough battle,” said the former Sweyne Park pupil.

Colchester will be looking for a win as well because they are also around the relegation zone and I think that will make for a physical battle.

“It’s an important game for both teams but we need to start pushing on.

“The next month of games are massive for the club and we need to make sure we get some distance between ourselves and the relegation zone.”