IT’S derby day in the Thurlow Nunn League.

Rivals STANWAY ROVERS and FC CLACTON are preparing for the premier division’s first big north Essex showdown, at The Hawthorns (kick-off 7.45pm).

Both will be hungry for victory, after disappointing results at the weekend.

Stanway squandered a 2-0 lead in their 2-2 draw at Newmarket, while the Seasiders slipped to a 2-1 defeat at home to Thetford.

WIVENHOE TOWN have another tricky away fixture, at reigning Thurlow Nunn League champions Hadleigh United.

However, they can take heart from Saturday’s 1-1 draw at fancied Gorleston.

BRANTHAM ATHLETIC play host to Felixstowe & Walton, hoping to bounce back from Saturday’s 5-1 defeat at Mildenhall.

HALSTEAD TOWN have a division one date at Cornard United.

BRAINTREE TOWN RESERVES kick-off their campaign at home to their counterparts from AFC Sudbury.

For the full story, including quotes and team news, see Tuesday's Gazette.