ALL four borough sides look set to beat the weather and challenge for Bet Victor Isthmian points today (Saturday, 4 January).

Premier Division East Thurrock United have been buoyed by a New Year's Day derby win against Bowers & Pitsea and the unexpected retention of loanee Darren Foxley but still face a huge task at the Grayers Graphic Stadium when high-flying Worthing visit.

Rocks managed to win 3-2 at the Rebels' Bibby Financial Services Stadium in October when they twice came from behind thanks to goals from top scorer Frankie Merrifield and won it with a cracker from Ben Marlow but their visitors today have been resurgent since and sit second in the table, level on points with leaders Folkestone.

East Thurrock have been no mean performers in the league either and are currently eighth.

Their squad has been reduced in size through financial constraints and departures lately and with just 15 players to call on manager John Coventry had expected to lose St Albans loanee Foxley but a last minute change of heart by his parent club, and a commitment to fund his wages by supporters, means he is staying for at least another month.

If Rocks face a tough task, then Aveley will feel they have an even tougher one in the North Division when they travel to leaders Maldon & Tiptree.

The Millers sit in second, level on points but having played three games more.

Maldon, who did suffer a three point penalty for playing an ineligible player, have won 12 of their 13 league matches, drawing the other - so if Aveley can get something in the Jammers' den then they really will feel confident of turning a potential promotion campaign into reality.

Grays Athletic will be at home to Heybridge Swifts, hoping to put some indifferent recent form behind them, while Tilbury will play host to struggling Witham Town and, should Grays falter, will be confident of the win that would lift them above their neighbours and traditional rivals.