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ROCHFORD Hundred scrum half Steve Jay is relishing Saturday’s local derby with Southend Saxons.

London One North leaders Rochford will head into the clash at Magnolia Road as firm favourites having not been beaten so far this season.

And Jay, who lined up for Southend earlier on in his career, cannot wait for the pre Christmas cracker.

“It’s always nice to have a local derby to look forward to and they don’t get much bigger than this,” said Jay.

“It always brings an extra bit of spice being a former club for myself and a number of others so we’re looking forward to it.”

Rochford, who were promoted from London Two North East last season without losing a game, are currently eight points clear at the top of the table after winning all 13 of their matches this term.

Rochford have now triumphed in their last 35 league games and Jay is enjoying his part in the ongoing success.

“I’ve been part of Rochford since I was a child and my family have always been heavily involved with the club so it’s nice that we are now getting to play in these bigger games,” said Jay.

“We’re pleased with how things have gone so far this season but still have a long way to go.”

Rochford have scored 842 points in their 13 games so far this term and continued their fine run with a 61-8 win at Old Haberdashers at the weekend.

And Jay was delighted to record another win on the road.

“We were very clinical and ruthless against Old Habs on Saturday,” said Jay.

“We will be looking to bring the same intensity again this weekend and every other game after that too.”

Victory on Saturday would also ensure Rochford had won all of their league games during 2018.

But Jay will not be getting carried away.

Although we are obviously pleased with the first half of the season we are setting our own goals within the squad to keep pushing on and improving,” said Jay.

“We know we have no room to slip up and are committed to keeping our top spot.”

Rochford Hundred won 50-17 at Southend Saxons towards the start of the season and will now be aiming for a double.