SOUTHEND Saxons star Callum Smith will achieve another burning ambition when he takes to the field at Twickenham on Saturday.

The powerful centre combines working as a firefighter with his influential role at Warners Bridge.

But it will be solely rugby on Smith’s mind this weekend as he strives to secure an appearance at the world famous stadium he will always be able to recall.

“I actually played at Twickenham when I was a kid maybe around the age of 10,” said Smith.

“I’m not sure that really counts and I can’t remember it either way. “I’ve been there plenty of times though and it’s obviously such an iconic place with the legends that have run out there.

“There’s not that many people up and down the country that can say they’ve played there in a cup final and I’ll be proud to say I’ll be one.”

Southend – who have already been crowned Regional Two Anglia champions – dug deep to beat Royal Wootton Bassett 32-22 in Saturday’s Papa Johns National Trophy semi-final at Warners Bridge.

But Smith was always anticipating a testing encounter.

“I think it was what we expected,” said Smith.

“It was tough, they were tough and they were keen too.

“There’s a reason they’ve only lost one game in their league all season and Saturday showed it.

“But when we went down to 13 in the second half the resilience that we showed was a joke really.

“The Lads were throwing themselves about like they were rag dolls just to stop them from scoring.

“It’s been the same all year and our defence is what won us the game.”

Victory also set up Saturday’s final against Northampton Old Scouts at Twickenham.

And Smith is keen to make the most of the opportunity.

“I think it’s a cliche but the message I’ll try and get across is to enjoy it,” said Smith.

“Take it in, every ounce of it, and enjoy it. That being said, we’ll enjoy it a lot more if we get the win I’ve got no doubt.

“It will be a weird one. I normally have a lot to say to the lads in and around game day but it might be the first time that I’m quiet.”

Southend have had plenty to shout about this season and head into the final having secured 24 victories in succession.

And Smith has relished his role in an already memorable campaign.

“This season has been pretty unbelievable,” said Smith.

“I was lucky enough to get promoted to National One a few years ago with Hull Ionians and I didn’t think that could be topped but here we are, one game off potentially winning a cup final at Twickenham after already winning the league,” said Smith.

“I dare say, although different levels, that this season could be my most favourite yet.

“Southend welcomed me with open arms three years ago, made me feel like I’ve been there my whole career, and hopefully this year I’ve been able to play my own personal part in repaying the favour.”

But Smith’s demanding job makes for a busy schedule. “I’m a full-time firefighter for Essex so it can be sometimes tricky to combine the two,” said Smith.

“If work has been hard and then you’re going into a rugby game or vice versa it can be hard to manage the body through injuries and occasionally it can be mentally draining too.

“I’ve been fortunate though that the service, my boss and my watch have been accommodating for the past few years and continue to support me in taking time off, supporting me through injuries and genuinely just being interested in how I’ve done.

“I wouldn’t have been able to do this year without them.”

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