Midfielder Chris Duffy is likely to play his first game on the comeback trail after an operation when Canvey Island start their defence of the Essex Senior Cup at Park Lane tonight.

And former Cambridge United defender Ben Chenery is set for a debut in the match.

Hopes are high that the third round match with Schweppes Essex Senior League opposition in the shape of Barkingside will go ahead after having been postponed on at least a couple of previous occasions.

Said Gulls' boss Jeff King: "Obviously we will make changes tonight to give players who have not been starting matches a chance of getting match practice, but let no-one think that we are taking this match lightly.

"We've won the Senior Cup for the last two seasons and desperately want to make it a hat-trick. We certainly won't be fielding a weakened side and would love to get back to Roots Hall for a third successive final."

After this evening's affair, the Islanders' attentions will be focused on Saturday's eagerly-awaited Ryman League Premier Division derby with Billericay Town at New Lodge."

Orders are still being taken for videos of both Canvey FA Cup clashes with Port Vale. Both sold out on their first runs - the away game, which Gulls won 2-1, within days of 50 copies being delivered.

The Southend tie video goes on sale for the first time tonight at the club shop.

By Dick Marshall

Reporter's e-mail: dick.marshall@notes.newsquest.co.uk

Versatility - Craig Davidson has filled defensive and midfield roles for Canvey in the past week

Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

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