We prepare in earnest for a trip to Canvey Island this coming Tuesday to face The Beachboys in our first ever visit to The Aspect Arena. After eight postponements in what is by far the worst winter for football in recent years, the weather forecast again takes preference over team news.

Mondays predicted showers will do the collective playing surfaces of non league football no good, whilst Tuesdays predicted high winds and heavy showers may lead to yet another postponement.

Looking back over the last three seasons, there is a case building for a winter break in January. We have managed just ten fixtures in the first month of the year ,  meaning almost 50% of our calender has been wiped out, leading to a packed schedule in March and April. This scenario only profits the money sides with big squads, leaving the likes of us and we are not alone, to test players fitness to the limit. The smaller squads suffer injuries and suspensions which disadvantages them even further when part time players are asked to play two or even three games per week after lengthy lay offs.

Since we last met back on Boxing Day, a disappointing 0-2 defeat, both sides have enjoyed a reasonable run of results, although failing to benefit from any continuity. This game, should it go ahead was originally scheduled for New Years Day.

Concord lost their last game against a much improved Chelmsford City at home, which ended their four match unbeaten run. However that was three weeks ago making our two games in the last three weeks seem plentiful!

We are currently enjoying a four match unbeaten run since losing the home tie to Concord. That run including a 5-0 win against Dorchester Town and a 1-3 victory at Bishops Stortford. None of our recent loan signings have yet played away from home, so here’s hoping that Junior Morais and Kudos Oyenuga can turn on the style in front of goal this Tuesday to support our superb defence!

We will need to be at our very best to get anything from a side who recently took maximum points on the road at Bromley, the current title favourites.

The Beachboys currently sit five points above us having played two games less, making this a must win game for Ian Allinson, with just four points between ourselves and the drop zone.

Tuesday February 11th, kick off 7.45pm

The Aspect Arena, Thames Road, Canvey Island. SS8 0HH.

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