East Thurrock Hope History Is On Their Side Tomorrow

The Rocks welcome Hampton and Richmond Borough after doing the double over the Beavers last season.

The pair came up from the Ryman League together in 2016 but so far it’s the Essex club who have been in control since they entered the Vanarama National League South.

“Let’s just hope we can carry that on tomorrow!” long-serving Coventry said ahead of the match.

“We did well against them last year and considering Hampton got into the playoffs that bodes well. But it’s a new season and everything changes.

“I get on very well with Alan Dowson, the manager of Hampton. He’s a great guy – a little difficult to understand but he’s a wonderful character. Martin Tyler his assistant is clearly a great football man too.

“We think we’re ready, it’s going to be a difficult second season mainly because clubs now know us that little bit more.

“Like everyone we’ve changed some things about but the fact remains that this is a big season for us and we want to keep on progressing.

“We can’t wait. I wouldn’t say I’ve enjoyed pre-season, who actually does! There’s no substitute for playing for three points, that’s for certain.”