The wait is over as the Gulls return to competitive action on Saturday afternoon, welcoming Gorleston to the Steve's Taxis Stadium for the opening fixture of the 2026/27 Pitching In Isthmian League North Division season.

Following an intensive summer of preparation, the Gulls begin a new chapter with home advantage, aiming to make a positive start in front of a home crowd. Opening-day fixtures often provide an early indication of a team's ambitions, and both sides will be looking to begin the campaign on the front foot as the new season gets underway.

Garry Kimble’s side endured a comprehensive pre-season programme designed to build fitness, integrate new tactics and establish momentum ahead of the 26/27 league campaign. A varied schedule of fixtures has enabled the management team to assess the squad while providing valuable minutes across the group. With preparations now complete, attention turns to translating encouraging performances into competitive results as the Gulls look to begin the season with a strong home performance.

Visitors Gorleston arrive on the Island following a productive pre-season of their own, having faced a range of opposition in preparation for the upcoming Isthmian North campaign. The Norfolk side have used the summer to develop match sharpness and refine their tactical approach, with manager Darren Cockrill seeking to ensure his squad is ready for the challenges that lie ahead, with their trip to Park Lane presenting an early opportunity to put that preparation to the test in competitive action.

The Opposition
Founded in 1887, Gorleston are one of the East of England's longest-established football clubs and have become a well-respected presence within the Isthmian League North Division. Based at the Wellesley Recreation Ground in Great Yarmouth, the Greens have built a reputation for their organised style of play, disciplined defensive structure and ability to compete consistently against the division's strongest sides, and will be looking to make an immediate statement on the opening weekend of the season.

One to watch
One of the division's experienced midfielders, Ryan Curtis remains a key figure in Gorleston's midfield. Curtis first signed for the Greens back in the summer of 2023 and has gone on to appear 119 times for Gorleston, finding the back of the net on 38 occasions. The midfielder will prove to be a difficult opponent for the Gulls who will have a big task to keep him quiet.

Three Facts About Gorleston

• Gorleston were founded in 1887, giving them almost 140 years of footballing history.
• The club play their home matches at the historic Wellesley Recreation Ground, one of the oldest football venues in Norfolk.
• Nicknamed The Greens, Gorleston have established themselves as a competitive force in the Isthmian League North following their promotion from the Eastern Counties League in 2023.

Matchday Information
Supporters are encouraged to arrive in good time ahead of the 3:00pm kick-off to enjoy the opening day of the new season.

Admission prices
Adults: £12
Concessions: £8
Under-16s: £3

Play our pre-match Gorleston Quiz Here

With a new campaign comes renewed optimism, and everyone at Canvey Island Football Club looks forward to welcoming supporters back to the Steve's Taxis Stadium. Your support can make a real difference as the Gulls look to start the 2026/27 season with a positive result on home soil.

Match Details
Fixture: Canvey Island vs Gorleston
Competition: Isthmian North Division

Date: Saturday 08 August 

Kick-off: 3pm
Venue: Steve's Taxis Stadium

We look forward to welcoming supporters to the Steve's Taxis Stadium for our first outing of the season. Your backing throughout pre-season is greatly appreciated, and we hope to see a strong crowd on Saturday as the Gulls take the first steps in 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 3pm, we look forward to seeing you all there.