ESSEX SENIOR LEAGUE: Bowers & Pitsea manager Rob Small has hit out at the Essex Senior League for not scheduling a game for them tomorrow – despite his side having as many as 10 games in hand on the team’s above them.

Bowers were scheduled to be playing in the FA Vase but the match that will decide their opponents is not being played until tomorrow.

Small’s men have only played 18 league fixtures so far this term, which is the fewest of any of the 14 step five leagues in the country.

“The Essex Senior League have not given us a fixture despite us basically begging,” said Small. “We have played 18 games which is the fewest of any step five club in the country.

“It is almost farcical!”

Basildon United were buoyed at the news that manager Craig Gillam would remain as the club’s manager this week, after a turbulent 24 hours.

Gillam had quit after a dispute with chairman Dave Maxwell, having just led Basildon United back to the top of the league with a 4-2 win over Stansted.

But he reversed the decision and will be on the sidelines as the Bees visit Burnham Ramblers tomorrow.

Ramblers sit mid-table and Basildon will be hot favourites to pick up the points.

But they will be without Grant Hayward (groin), Brad Hunter (foot) and Taylor Sinfield (work).

Hullbridge Sports have a fully-fit squad to chose from as they visit fifth-placed Wadham Lodge, in what is likely to be a tough match.

Sports have won both of their league matches so far this month, although they haven’t played for a fortnight.

Southend Manor have been seeing an upturn in recent performances after the arrival of manager Stuart Marshall, although he was left frustrated following the postponement of last weekend’s match against Burnham 10 minutes before kick-off.

They welcome Tower Hamlets to Southchurch Park tomorrow, knowing a victory will see the two sides both on 25 points.

Manor are looking to add several more players before tomorrow's game and Marshall added it was getting tight down the bottom of the division.