BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager Tom Rothery has vowed to field as strong a side as possible for Tuesday’s Tolleshunt D’Arcy Memorial Cup final against FC Clacton.

The Tendring neighbours will be competing for silverware in a 7.45pm kick-off at the Taydal Stadium.

Rothery admits the charity competition was not top of the club’s priority list at the start of the season.

However, having preserved their status in the Bostik League premier division, he says it would be lovely to lift some silverware in front of the R’s supporters.

“It’s a cup final and a match we dearly want to win,” he said.

“We know it won’t be easy and it’s a derby, but we’ll be fielding the strongest side possible.

“We won’t be saving anyone for next Saturday (when the R’s play their final league game at Worthing).”

Rothery is delighted that his side can go into the cup final with their step three status already preserved.

“It’s been a long, tough season, both mentally and physically,” he said.

“However, we’ve achieved our status and that’s a massive achievement, in my eyes.

“We’ve adjusted to a new level - physically, mentally and technically - and the players deserve a lot of credit for that.

“Now we’ve got three games left - at home to Met Police on Saturday, Clacton in the cup final and then away to Worthing.

“I hope we continue to try and play good football and be competitive until the end.”

Brightlingsea have had a tough few days - losing 2-0 at Harlow Town on Saturday and crashing 7-0 at home to Leatherhead on Monday.