FLY-HALF Ben Lloyd feels things are starting to come together nicely for Southend Saxons.

Third-placed Southend head to Woodford in London One North tomorrow on the back of four successive victories.

And Lloyd is pleased with how the season is shaping up.

“We’re in a good place,” said Lloyd.

“We had some mixed performances early on but we can’t forget that this is a relatively new group.

“You’ve definitely seen progression as we’ve all got used to each other’s playing styles and hopefully we’re now in a place where we can start to demand more from each other as a group.

“We’ve had high standards from day one because we know what the group is capable of so it’s exciting that we’re starting to move towards that.”

Southend’s fine run has taken them to within three points of second-placed Colchester.

And Lloyd feels confidence is high ahead of tomorrow’s clash.

“The group are confident and there’s a nice buzz around the place at the moment,” said Lloyd.

“We’ve strung a series of good wins and more importantly good performances together so there’s a real sense that we’re building nicely heading into Christmas.

“There’s a lot still to work on but I’d be worried if there wasn’t.

“We’re operating below where we know we can get to and that’s really encouraging but it means nothing unless we keep it moving.”

Southend triumphed 88-7 against struggling Ruislip last weekend.

And Lloyd - who did not feature in the game - was pleased to see other members of the Saxons squad step up and show what they can do.

“I was up to watch the game as I was given the week off and it was a professional display from the boys out on the field which was good to see,” said Lloyd.

“We’ve always said that this is a squad effort and for some of the boys who have been banging at the door to get opportunities and then fit in seamlessly was good to see.

“We’re going to need them as the season progresses.”

Southend will be favourites to win again tomorrow as Woodford are currently second from bottom in the table having triumphed just once in their first 10 games of the season.

In London One South this weekend, Thurrock host Chichester while, in London Two North East South, Woodham Ferrers head to Ipswich.

In London Three Essex, struggling Basildon head to Barking and, in Essex One, second-placed Canvey Island head to Writtle Wanderers.