FA TROPHY: Ben Wood is enjoying being East Thurrock United’s “Mr Reliable” and says the team is relishing another tough test in the FA Trophy this weekend.

Rocks’ trip to Havant & Waterlooville is their 13th cup game of the season and Wood is hoping it is not unlucky for East Thurrock when they travel to Hampshire.

East Thurrock have enjoyed an excellent November – only losing once to League Two side Hartlepool United in the first round of the FA Cup.

And Wood, 36, who was only brought back to the club by John Coventry when Rocks were left short at centre-back, has been an important part of that.

“I have only missed the Billericay game so far,” said Wood. “I am surprised to be honest with you but it is great for me.

“Covo said, of our form, after we beat Bath City (7-1 in the FA Cup qualifying rounds) 'it must be you!'”

Wood played against Hartlepool United in the First Round proper of the FA Cup and impressed.

And he wants to continue that in the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy.

“Going to a Hartlepool was a fantastic day for everyone.

“We did very well and showed a lot of people what we were capable of. We have done well in the cup competitions this year and it is important we maintain that this weekend.

“Havant are a good team but we love these tough games.”

Rocks lie 16th in the league, but have games in hand on many of the sides above them. And Wood has called on his teammates to carry their impressive cup form into the league.

“It is difficult to get back into the swing of league football having played so many cup games,” he said. “We are annoyed that we can’t replicate our good form in the league but, saying that, we haven’t lost in the league for a while now which is great for us.”

One man who has caught the eye in recent weeks is Dave Bryant.

He has netted three times in the last four outings and Wood is impressed at his contribution.

“He has done very well for us,” he said. “He is an old-school centre-forward but has been playing out wide and still scoring. He will be important for us this weekend.”

Rocks are in good shape ahead of the match and all 14 first-team players will be available for the clash.

Long-term injury casualty Emmanuel Osei (ruptured achilles) is now out of plaster as he continues his rehabilitation.

Havant beat Rocks’ rivals Canvey Island in the FA Cup last month but are in the middle of a sticky spell, having only won one of their last four matches, dropping to sixth in the division.