Southend Sabres prepare for their biggest match of the season knowing that the odds are stacked against them.
They entertain local rivals Essex Spartans on Sunday rocked by two more injuries in their wafer-thin squad, and a lot of pride is at stake after a 6-0 defeat in the sides' earlier meeting.
But head coach Gary Abbott is certain his men will give everything.
"They are our number one enemy," he said. "There's a lot of grudges because when the Basildon club first started they were a breakaway team from Southend."
Abbott also knows it will be a tough test against a Spartans side with play-off hopes: "They have come down from a higher division and we know we are in for a struggle.
"But our performance last week was much better, even though we finished with just 14 players."
Last Sunday's game ended in a 28-12 defeat against Kent Exiles, but there was a welcome return for Greg Crease after injury.
He ran in a touchdown from seven yards, and rookie Dave Gowers completed a 25-yard passing TD for his first ever score.
Meanwhile up the road in Basildon, Spartans head coach Dean Gibson is looking forward to a battle.
"It's good to be back playing competitive football after a four-week break," he said. "Sabres always give us a tough game."
The match kicks off a 2.30pm at Southend Rugby Club's Warners Park home.
Published Friday, June 20, 2003
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