Football returns to the Steve's Taxis Stadium on Saturday afternoon as Canvey Island begin preparations for the new campaign with an exciting home clash against National League South side Ebbsfleet United.

After a productive summer on and off the pitch, the Gulls take to the field for the first time ahead of the 2026/27 season, with supporters getting their first opportunity to see the newly formed squad in action.

Pre-Season is all about building fitness, sharpening match sharpness and laying the foundations for the season ahead, but there is no doubt that both sides will be eager to start with a positive performance.

The visitors arrive on the Island following a competitive 2025/26 campaign in the National League South. The Fleet remained in contention for the play-off places for much of the season and possess a squad packed with quality, experience and attacking talent, making them ideal opposition to provide a stern early test.

For the Gulls, Saturday's fixture marks the beginning of another important pre-season schedule, giving the management team the chance to assess the squad, build partnerships across the pitch and continue preparations ahead of the 26/27 Isthmian North Division campaign.

Match Details
Fixture: Canvey Island vs Ebbsfleet United
Competition: Pre-Season Friendly
Date: Saturday 4 July
Kick-off: 1:00pm
Venue: Steve's Taxis Stadium

We look forward to welcoming supporters back to the Steve's Taxis Stadium as another season gets underway. Your backing throughout pre-season is greatly appreciated, and we hope to see a strong crowd on Saturday afternoon as the Gulls take the first steps towards the new campaign.

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.