A second attempt at staging the Essex Senior Cup semi-final between Dr Martens League Chelmsford City and Ryman League Premier Division leaders Canvey Island will be made, weather permitting, at Billericay Town's New Lodge ground tomorrow night.

Torrential rain washed out last night's bid to stage the tie and, with more wet forecast for today, the signs for the tomorrow are not hopeful.

If the match is played one Islander definitely missing will be midfield star Mark Stimson, once a £200,000 player with Spurs and Newcastle.

For he's been rewarded for an outstanding season with a call-up for the National Game XI -- an England semi-pro international team otherwise packed with Nationwide Conference players -- who take on the United States at Stevenage tomorrow (7.30pm).

Meanwhile, Gulls will have one eye on the action at main title rivals Gravesend this evening.

The Kent men take on bottom club Croydon at home and, if successful, will move level with Jeff King's men at the top of the table.

Meanwhile, Grays visit Sutton United tonight knowing that victory is imperative if they are to emerge as Thurrock's top side at the end of the season.

In-form Purfleet, who beat them 3-1 away on Saturday, are closing in fast, but Grays, lying third, still hold the upper hand -- two points clear of Colin McBride's men with a game in hand.

Published Tuesday, March 19, 2002