Not much will change from the GWR game the day before, unless we make a signing, stop laughing; a half each for a selection of first teamers from our small but perfectly formed squad, maybe more time for the trialists, and a scattering of youth team players.
Striker Craig Calver is an addition which should mean the kit-man won't have to go on!
Striker Craig Calver is an addition which should mean the kit-man won't have to go on!
The main story at this game being the long standing friendship between the two managers, Tilly and Danny Greaves. They actually played together at Witham in the 80's, and still line up for veterans weekend side, Tag United.
Speaking to the Echo Greaves said: "It's great that Steve and Southend United are coming down to play us. We still see each other quite often, I live near his parents in Wickford and it will be strange being in opposite dug-outs but it will be a good afternoon for everyone. Hopefully there will be a good crowd and being a former Southend player myself it would be nice to get a bit of a cheer."
In fact it was Danny who recommended Tilly to then Blues boss David Webb.
Greaves continued: "I had known of Tilly but when I saw him play I told Dave Webb to give him a chance and that's exactly what happened. He went on to do very well for Southend but when we were at Witham together I did outscore him and do still like to remind him of that every now and then."
Getting There
Speaking to the Echo Greaves said: "It's great that Steve and Southend United are coming down to play us. We still see each other quite often, I live near his parents in Wickford and it will be strange being in opposite dug-outs but it will be a good afternoon for everyone. Hopefully there will be a good crowd and being a former Southend player myself it would be nice to get a bit of a cheer."
In fact it was Danny who recommended Tilly to then Blues boss David Webb.
Greaves continued: "I had known of Tilly but when I saw him play I told Dave Webb to give him a chance and that's exactly what happened. He went on to do very well for Southend but when we were at Witham together I did outscore him and do still like to remind him of that every now and then."
Getting There
| By Road: Witham is situated between Chelmsford and Colchester on the main A12 trunk road. If you enter from the north or south make your way to Spinks Lane set of lights opposite the RAF Club, turn into Spinks Lane where signposts will direct you to the ground. By Rail: Witham Station is on the One Great Eastern Line between London Liverpool St. and Colchester Ipswich/Norwich. So all change at Shenfield for those travelling from the Vic onwards and look to spend just under an hour on the two trains. Outward Southend Victoria to Shenfield, change and then Shenfield to Witham. Southend Victoria 15.06 (for the drinkers), reaching Shenfield 15.38; Leave Shenfield 15.42, reach Witham 16.00. Southend Victoria 16.06 (for a leisurely stroll - there are 26 and 46 services to Shenfield as well), reaching Shenfield 16.38. Leave Shenfield 16.42, reach Witham 17.00. Return Witham 20.33 Shenfield 20.53 Shenfield 21.00 Southend Victoria 21.31 Tickets From Southend Victoria Off Peak Return £12.90 or from Shenfield £8.50. Cheaper with railcards. From Witham Town Train Station: On foot turn left out of station bear left on railway bridge, cross road, then follow road to right at mini roundabout. Then walk right into Almond Road left into Chelmer Road left into footpath and then take right fork path to see Witham Town FC facing you. About 20 minutes if you don't go via Newlands Street and the pubs! | ||
Cabs are available from outside the station.     | ||
Pub and a Pie
The George: 36 Newland Street
Battesford Court (Weatherspoons): 102 Newland Street
Newland Street is home to both pubs and a couple of others, worth checking out if you have the time