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Despite the relavently close proximity, this will be the first time Southend have visited Burnham for four years, the last visit seeing United field a mostly reserve and youth side but with trialist Leon Gutzmore scoring four times, Southend still ran out comprehensive 7-1 victors.
Another previous visit came towards the end of Peter Taylor's reign as manager, when in January 1995 a friendly was hastily arranged on the Monday evening following Blues postponed Roots Hall fixture with Port Vale, United sending a full first team and finishing victorious by 4-0.
Burnham enjoyed a successful campaign in 2001-2002, enjoying a third place finish in the Forester's Essex Senior League under the guidance of manager John Higley, and although they have lost the influential Danny Greaves to Concord Rangers, they have brought in a more than suitable replacement in former West Ham United midfielder Craig Etherington. The 22-year old wide man has Football League appearances under his belt having appeared four times for both Plymouth Argyle and Halifax Town during loan spells.
Southend meanwhile are expected to send a full squad to Leslie Field, and if last season's warm-up matches are anything to go by, United could well field a different side in each half, with the expected first teamers to enjoy 45 whilst the fringe players get a whole half.
Ian Selley should play some part in proceedings having joined on loan from Wimbledon once again along with trialists Mark Salter, Niel Jenkins and Portugese wide man Paulo Martins. Contract rebel Daniel Webb could also feature in United's line-up.
For those supporters who fancy a post-match pint, Ramblers are holding a disco in the Club bar after the game, the bar has an extension until midnight and all are welcome.
SOUTHEND (FROM):- Darryl Flahavan, Daniel Gay, Jamie Waite, Mark Beard, Damon Searle, Neil Jenkins, Phil Whelan, Leon Cort, Daniel Lunan, David McSweeney, Stephen Broad, Stuart Thurgood, Kevin Maher, Ian Selley, Anthony Clark, Rio Alderton, Steven Clark, Paulo Martins, Danny Maye, Mark Salter, Tes Bramble, Daniel Webb, Mark Rawle, Tony Richards, Barrington Belgrave.
Mark Wallis
www.thelittlegazette.com