The History: Overall the record between the sides is quite tight. Grays currently have 6 wins to East Thurrock's 5 with 2 draws. Many Grays fans consider this game a bogey match though, so why is that? Well since 2010 the sides have started to meet in league fixtures and the record in these games is 1 Grays win and 4 for East Thurrock, including the last meeting in December. That day was virtually all over at half time with The Rocks 3-0 up. Blues did manage to regain some pride to win the second half 1-0, but that scant consolation for the players or fans.

The Form: Grays are sitting one place outside the play offs after a week that see them face two sides with promotion ambitions. Last Monday, top of the table Maidstone visited The Blues and managed to get themselves a point in their quest for the title. Two days later, one of the chasing pack, Wingate & Finchley, were beaten 3-2 and Grays were briefly on the play off places until Saturday's games.
East Thurrock will be glad to get back in action as soon as possible after their last game. They lost 5-0 on Saturday at Metropolitan Police in a result that bunches up the chasing pack even further. At home it has been a different story as they are undefeated in their last 5 league games at Rookery Hill. Having said that though, Grays have won their last 4 away from home and are undefeated in 10 league games, so an exciting game should be in prospect this bank holiday!

The players to watch: Joao Carlos celebrated the eve of his birthday last week by scoring a double to help Blues overcome Wingate & Finchley. His is part of a pacy trio that also includes Corey Davidson and Bradley Fortnum-Tomlinson that has helped make Grays a formidable attacking force in recent weeks.
Where else can we start with East Thurrock other than talisman striker Sam Higgins? His goals have helped keep Rocks in touch with the play offs all season. There were reports he was injured in Saturday's defeat to Metropolitan Police but if there is a chance he can play then surely John Coventry will risk him to keep East Thurrock's season alive.