AFTER two previous postponements Tilbury will be hoping to make progress in the FA Vase this afternoon (Saturday, 16 December) at the expense of fellow Essex Senior League side Saffron Walden.

The tie should originally have been played at Tilbury's Chadwell ground but after two postponements because of the weather, it was switched by the FA to Saffron's  Catons Lane ground.

Ironically that was scheduled to be the venue of a league clash between the sides last Tuesday but that was also called off.

In a bid to ensure today's match goes ahead, Saffron Walden have had their pitch verti-drained and are hopeful it will be a case of third time lucky for the tie.

In the Vanarama National League South Aveley, who this week released full back Tom Stephen, have a tantalising Essex derby at Braintree Town.

Stephen joined the Millers in May 2022 and helped them win the Velocity Trophy and promotion.

After their stunning start to the season which has seen them contest top spot, newly prompted Aveley's league form has slipped a little lately and they go into the match in fifth place. That's still four above the Iron and manager Danny Scopes will be hoping for a bounce back at Cressing Road to previous form.

A change of manager has lifted Grays from their early season malaise and while a win would not lift them from their current second-from-bottom spot victory against fellow strugglers Enfield at Chadfields today will be another marker on a road to improvement under new boss Darren Manning.

Manning continues to reshape his squad and has brought in young striker Kien Connolly from Great Wakering and defender Rohat Matyar on loan from Dagenham and Redbridge.

The Blues boss said: "I'm delighted to welcome these two to the club! Two great young talents who we have the chance to help improve."