HARRY Branch insists Southend Saxons are not daunted by facing high-flying Colchester this weekend.

Colchester are currently second in the London One standings.

But Branch cannot wait to line-up in the Essex derby.

“I don’t see any of the teams we play against as daunting, if I’m really honest about it,” said the scrum-half.

“All of the games in this league come with different challenges and there’s obviously no denying Colchester are a good team.

“But I believe it brings the best out of all the players when we’re playing sides like them and hopefully we’ll see that again on Saturday.

“I’m expecting an intense game from both sides and I’m really looking forward to it.

“Hopefully the weather will be good and both sides can show our class.”

Southend are currently eighth in the table and saw off Ruislip 32-19 last time out.

But Branch is now keen for Saxons to build on that victory.

“Saturday’s a great chance for us to express our rugby and show how much experience we have gained this season,” said the former King John School pupil.

“I’m excited about seeing what everyone brings to the table this weekend for the Essex derby.”

After Saturday’s clash, Saxons have just three games left to play this season.

But Branch is determined to end the campaign on a high despite Southend not being in the race for promotion or at risk of being relegated.

“I know that going into the last four games we will be looking to perform as well as we can and finish as high as we possibly can in the league table,” said Branch.

“We had specific goals at the start of the season, one being to stabilise the club.

“For us, that goal has been hit which is a great achievement.

“We have also brought many young personnel in and debuted them throughout the year, which has been great for the club.

“But we still have a lot to play for and want as many points as we can.”

Also in London One North this weekend, table-topping Rochford Hundred head to Eton Manor.

Rochford have won all 22 of their games so far this season and are currently 14 points clear of second-placed Colchester.

Hundred will be looking to keep the unbeaten run going tomorrow and will be confident of seeing off a Manor side who sit ninth in the standings. In London Two North East, Basildon head to Stowmarket while South Woodham Ferrers host Romford & Gidea Park.