SOUTHEND Saxons co-chairman Dave Short feels tomorrow's Papa Johns National Trophy final at Twickenham will be among the best moments in the club's long history.
Southend - who were formed in 1870 - face Northampton Old Scouts - at the famous home of English rugby this weekend.
And Short believes the game will be right up there with anything the Saxons have ever achieved.
"I've been involved with this club since 1972 and this is definitely up there with anything that's been done in that time," said Short.
"We played Gloucester in the John Player Cup back in 1981 which was special with around 4,000 here watching but this is a completely different kettle of fish.
"It's going to be a momentous day in our history and I haven't stopped smiling since we won the semi-final on Saturday.
"It's taken a huge effort from the players and coaches and I'm full of admiration for what they have done.
"This will be our first ever 15s match at Twickenham and that's a huge achievement.”
Short first took on the role of co-chairman back in 2016.
And he admits it has not always been easy.
"We've had some really tough times and we've struggled," said Short.
"We had a lot of players leave to join Rochford six or seven years ago and we've really had to rebuild.
"It's not been easy but we've got the right people in place and they've done a brilliant job.
"There's a great feel around the club again and days like Saturday will only enhance that."
Southend expect to have at least 400 fans cheering them on this weeend.
And Short insists he will enjoy the occasion whatever the result.
"I want us to win and it would be amazing to win but it's an achievement in itself just getting there," said Short.
"We have 200 fans coming up on the coaches, we know about 100 are going by car, at least 50 are on the train and it's going to be great.
"It's free entry for the game itself so the more we can get along the better."
Southend head into the game having triumphed in their last 24 games.
And Short is delighted to see the club moving in the right direction.
"It's brilliant to have won the league," said Short.
"It's another step towards getting back in the National Leagues where we think we should be."
Like Short, club president Ridler has also been with Southend since 1972.
And he is also extremely excited for this weekend’s clash.
“I expect I’ll find it quite emotional,” said Ridler.
“Hopefully we’ll get the right result but we’re very proud of the group and the team off the pitch too.
“They have all been superb and the camaraderie is brilliant.”
But Short also feels the squad’s strength in depth has played a huge part.
“The Priors have been brilliant this year, winning both the league and the cup,” said Short.
“Now when someone gets injured those coming in are really strong but that hadn’t been the case in previous years.
“There’s no longer a big gap and we have a great blend between youngsters and those who are more experienced too.
“It’s been a special season and hopefully Saturday can make it even more special.”
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