Canvey Island continue their preparations for the 2026/27 season on Saturday 18 July, when they welcome West Ham United Under 21s to the Steve’s Taxis Stadium, with action kicking-off at 3:00pm.

The Gulls will be looking to build further momentum in front of the home supporters as they take on one of the country's most talented academy sides. With another valuable pre-season test on the horizon, the fixture offers another opportunity for the squad to continue sharpening their fitness and match sharpness ahead of the new campaign.

West Ham United's U21s arrive on Canvey following another season competing in Premier League 2, where they continued to develop some of the club's brightest young prospects against the best academy sides in the country. The Hammers' youngsters also gained valuable experience in senior football through competitions such as the National League Cup, providing an ideal platform for players pushing towards first-team football. Their 2025/26 campaign once again highlighted the strength of West Ham's renowned academy, with several players continuing their progression towards senior football.

The Gulls head into Saturday's encounter after a competitive outing against National League South side Chelmsford City. The Gulls produced an encouraging performance and matched their higher-level opponents for long periods but were ultimately edged out by a single goal, narrowly losing 1-0. Despite the result, there were plenty of positives to take from the display as the squad continued to build fitness and cohesion ahead of the new season.

Supporters are encouraged to come along and back the Gulls as they continue their pre-season preparations with another exciting test against tough opposition. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Steve’s Taxis Stadium for a 3:00pm kick-off.

Match Details
Fixture: Canvey Island vs West Ham United U21s

Competition: Pre-Season Friendly

Date: Saturday 18 July

Kick-off: 3pm

Venue: Steve's Taxis Stadium

We look forward to welcoming supporters to the Steve's Taxis Stadium for our fourth pre-season outing. Your backing throughout pre-season is greatly appreciated, and we hope to see a strong crowd tomorrow afternoon as the Gulls continue to take 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 3pm.