WESTCLIFF skipper Harry Branch cannot wait to face local rivals Southend Saxons in his favourite fixture of the season this weekend.

Branch - who was with Southend before rejoining Westcliff - helped his side secure an emphatic 69-5 win against the Saxons back in September.

But the scrum half will be taking nothing for granted at Warners Bridge on Saturday.

“Going into the game we can’t afford to be complacent just because we had such a fantastic result last time we played Southend,” said Branch.

“We must also remember that we are in top half of the table so for Southend we are going to be a scalp they would like to take.

“But we can’t wait to get out there and it’s a game we’re all looking forward to.”

Westcliff have been able to build on their early win against Southend and are currently sixth in the London & SE Premier Division standings.

Rick Compton’s side have triumphed in seven of their 12 games so far.

But another victory this weekend would be even more pleasing for Branch.

“For me these are the games you play your rugby for, the energy leading up to the game is crazy and the atmosphere when you play is phenomenal,” said Branch.

“I don’t think there is a better game of rugby to be part of than a local derby with a old standing rivalry.

“I’m sure it will be a game worth watching for everyone.”

A bumper crowd is expected to be in attendance at Warners Bridge for a game Southend will be desperate to win to boost their survival hopes.

A narrow 28-25 victory against Westcombe Park last weekend saw Southend move off the foot of the table and up to 12th in the 14 team table.

But Saxons remain 11 points from safety and Branch is keen to make the most of Saturday’s meeting between the two teams.

“It could be the last time for a little while that this local derby happens if Southend were to be relegated this year,” said Branch.

“Personally I think would be a shame as this match is always brilliant and hopefully as many people will come down to watch as possible.”

Westcliff will also be heading into the game feeling fresh after their scheduled game with high-flying Hertford was postponed because of a frozen pitch last weekend.

However, Branch would have preferred for the match to go ahead.

“I think everyone was very keen to play,” said Branch.

“I got quite a few messages asking if it was a joke that the game had been called off. We had a really positive week at training, we felt confident so I think it was a missed opportunity.”