JOHN Coventry feels East Thurrock United will go into the new campaign in a good frame of mind after getting their hands on the Robin Nash Memorial Trophy.

Rocks recorded a 4-3 win over Isthmian North outfit Tilbury in a seven-goal thriller at Rookery Hill.

Ryan Scott, Mitch Gilbey, Frankie Merrifield and Ben Marlow claimed the East Thurrock goals and Coventry was pleased with his side’s performance.

“It was without a doubt the best side I have been able to put out during pre-season,” said the East Thurrock boss.

“That doesn’t mean that we are the finished article and it won’t necessarily be the team I go with for our season opener on Saturday.

“We knew it was going to be a competitive game and it was fairly even to start with.

“Although they went ahead against the run of play, we equalised and I felt we dominated from that point on.

“We could have been five or six goals up before we fell apart near the end.

“Some of the problems we have had during pre-season started to show towards the end and they got at our back four very easily because there was no protection.

“But there were a lot of good performances with the ball and I don’t think there was anyone who performed badly.”

Both sides had gone close before former Canvey Island frontman George Sykes gave Tilbury a 28th minute lead.

However, two goals in quick succession from Scott and Gilbey allowed Rocks to turn the clash on its head before half-time.

Merrifield and Marlow added their names to the scoresheet before two goals in as many minutes from Ola Ogunwamide and Sykes gave the Dockers hope.

However, East Thurrock held on to ensure they will go into their season opener against Cheshunt with silverware.