Match Preview

Canvey Island will contest their first Island derby in the league for over a decade on Monday as they take on local rivals Concord Rangers at Thames Road in the Isthmian League Premier.

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The Opposition
Concord Rangers are returnees to the Isthmian League this season after their 10 year stint in the National League South was ended with relegation last season.

New manager Sam Collins, a favourite in his playing career for both Island clubs, has been given the task of rebuilding the Beachboys squad and seeking a return back to the National League after the departure of last seasons manager Rob Small.

They've seen high profile players leave the squad however, with much of their squad being rebuilt from returning faces to the Beachboys, such as James White and Khale Da Costa, youthful prospects, like academy starlet Harrison Day, and players with Isthmian experience, including Luca Albon, who turned out for Canvey Island last season.

Life in the Isthmian League hasn't been kind to them thus far however, with 4 defeats frkm 4 games making things challenging for Sam Collins side. They tasted defeat on the south coast on Saturday as they fell to a 3-0 defeat at Hastings United.

Our last competitive meeting against the Beachboys came in last seasons Essex Senior Cup, with little to superate the two sides in a goalless draw at the Moviestarr Stadium - the visitors eventually progressing after penalties.

The Gulls

The Gulls meanwhile, have endured a tough start to the new season themselves, picking up just 3 points from a possible 12 in their opening 4 games.

Saturday saw them beaten at home 3-1 by Bognor Regis Town, with Evans Kouassi grabbing the consolation goal for the Gulls.

Manager Brad Wellmen will be hoping his side will be able to bounce back in this keenly anticipated derby.
Lordon Akolbire and Elliot Johnson should both be available again for selection ahead of the match, though striker Bradley Sach will out through injury.

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Derby's are a match unlike any other in football, with the form book often being thrown out as the two sides battle for local bragging rights.

With a big crowd expected for this Bank Holiday clash, we'll need our Yellow Army in full voice to cheer our boys to victory.

We look forward to seeing you all 'up the road's on Monday.

Come on you Gulls

Admission Prices
Adults - £12
Concessions - £7
U18s and Services - FREE

Cash and card purchases at the gate.

Address
The Aspect Arena
Thames Road, Canvey Island
SS8 0HH

Parking
Free parking is available at Thames Road, though is limited to first come/first serve. Additional parking is available on Thames Road itself, though please be respectful to our hosts neighbours if using this option.

Public Transport

Bus - Thames Road (21)