The Gulls conclude their preparations for the 2026/27 campaign on Saturday 01 August when they welcome Colchester United U21s to the Steve's Taxis Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 1:00pm.

It is the Gulls' final opportunity to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the new Isthmian North Division season, with Garry Kimble’s side looking to end pre-season on a positive note in front of the home supporters. Facing a talented Colchester United U21’s outfit promises to provide another competitive test, with the visitors bringing a squad packed with young, energetic players eager to impress.

Colchester United U21’s head into the 2026/27 season as part of the Professional Development League, where they continue to develop the club's brightest academy prospects. The young U's have spent pre-season building towards another demanding campaign, with players aiming to push for first-team opportunities at the JobServe Community Stadium. As always, the academy side combines technical quality with high intensity, making them a difficult opponent despite their youthful squad.

The Gulls will be hoping to bounce back after their previous pre-season outing, which ended in a 4-1 defeat to Aveley at the Steve's Taxis Stadium. Despite showing flashes of quality, Canvey found themselves up against a clinical Millers side and will be looking to take the positives from that performance into Saturday's final pre-season fixture. With the competitive campaign just around the corner, the match offers another valuable opportunity for the squad to build momentum, sharpen fitness levels and continue developing partnerships across the pitch.

Supporters are encouraged to come along to the Steve's Taxis Stadium and back the Gulls as they complete their pre-season schedule ahead of the new season. Kick-off is at 1:00pm on Saturday 1 August.

Match Details
Fixture: Canvey Island vs Colchester United U21’s

Competition: Pre-Season Friendly

Date: Saturday 01st August 

Kick-off: 1pm

Venue: Steve's Taxis Stadium

We look forward to welcoming supporters to the Steve's Taxis Stadium for our final pre-season outing. Your backing throughout pre-season is greatly appreciated, and we hope to see a strong crowd tomorrow as the Gulls take the final steps towards the new season.

Directions to the Steves Taxis Stadium (SS8 7PX);

By Car:
Exit M25 at Junction 30 and take the A13 towards Southend. You will reach a series of mini roundabouts. At these roundabouts, take the A130 towards Canvey Island. At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit which will keep a sports centre on your right and follow signs for Canvey Island Football Club.

Eventually, you will enter a one way system. Keep left through the one way system and after one mile you will pass the Transport Museum on your right. Park Lane is on the right hand side shortly afterwards, with The Steves Taxis Stadium located in front of you. There is plenty of parking outside the ground.

By Train:
Benfleet Station is 40 minutes from London Fenchurch Street and 50 minutes from London Liverpool Street on the C2C line. The station is 5 miles from the ground. There is a taxi rank around the back of the station. Alternatively, you can use the frequent bus service from the front of the station.

By Bus:
You can use the number 22 or 27 bus to be dropped directly outside Park Lane. Alternatively, you can use the number 21 or 21A to be dropped by the sea wall. From here, continue walking in the direction you travelled across some playing fields, and you will see The Steve’s Taxis Stadium on your left.

Kick off for this fixture is at 1pm.