SOUTHEND Saxons will be heading into the new season on a high, according to their director of rugby Josh Ward.

Southend saw off Saffron Walden 24-17 at Warners Bridge on Friday night.

And Ward is pleased to be going into the London One North campaign in good spirits.

“We’ve had a really good couple of months,” said Ward.

“We’ve had a good mix of training and social events because we’re a new group and we’re big on getting the culture right off the pitch too.

“If we do that we’ll get the rewards on the pitch and we’re pleased with how things are coming together.

“We’ve won three out of three in pre-season but, just like everyone else at this time of year, we still have plenty to work on.”

Southend head to Eton Manor this weekend before hosting Rochford Hundred the following weekend.

And Ward is expecting a number of tough tests this season.

“I think this league is the toughest it’s been for quite some time this year,” said Ward.

“I would say five or six of the teams in it would be able to hold their own in the league above but we’ll respect everyone without fearing them.

“It’s a huge challenge ahead of us but it’s an exciting one too and we’re looking forward to getting started.”

However, Ward - who has bolstered the squad during the summer - knows Saxons will have to be at their best to impress early on.

“Eton Manor are an experienced and established side so that’s a tough start,” said Ward.

“They’ve got a new artificial pitch we’ll be playing on which is something new for us.

“After that we play the league favourites Rochford so, on paper, it’s a very tough start for us.

“But right now we’re focused on preparing properly for Eton Manor at the weekend.”