HEAD coach Josh Ward insists Southend Saxons are in positive spirits ahead of tomorrow’s game with Tunbridge Wells.

Southend sit second from bottom in the London & SE Premier Division standings, 17 points from safety.

But Ward said Saxons will not give up the fight.

“There are 30 points still available and we will battle for every single one of them while it’s still mathematically possible to stay up,” said Ward.

“Last week was carnage for all of the teams because of the weather and we were no different.

“But we were back together on Tuesday for training and there was a good buzz.

“It’s not a nice situation we’re in and it’s not easy either, but this is a long-term plan we’re on.”

Southend head into the clash on the back of four successive defeats and have now triumphed just four times in 20 outings this term.

However, one of those victories came at Tunbridge Wells in November, where Saxons triumphed 17-12.

And Ward now wants to complete the double against the Kent club with another win at Warners Bridge.

“We played really well against them before and obviously want to go and do it again now,” said Ward.

“They’re a good side though and they have some big, powerful runners in their team who we will have to try and nullify.

“They’re mid-table, which takes a lot at this level, but we have to focus on ourselves. I know that’s a cliche but it’s the truth and we need to see a positive reaction from the Towcestrians game.”

Southend, who were beaten 15-14 by bottom of the table Towcestrians in their last outing, have Todd Bailey and Chris Shields available again this weekend.