Southend Manor striker Ben Barnett faced the biggest game of his life at Nationwide Conference new boys Dagenham and Redbridge last night (Thursday).

Barnett is currently on a pre-season trial with Third Division outfit Leyton Orient and was to lead the London side's attack in what could be a make or break 90 minutes at Victoria Road.

O's boss Tommy Taylor had promised the 20-year-old, who cracked 44 goals in the Essex Senior League last term, a decision on his future after closely monitoring his display in the friendly clash against the Daggers.

"It's make or break time and I know that this is the biggest game of my life," said the Shoebury based hitman before the game.

"But I'm confident in my ability and hopefully I can persuade Tommy Taylor to take a gamble on me.

"I know the pressure is on, but I can handle it and I'll just go out and give it my best shot. Orient have showed a lot of faith in me and I hope to repay them by taking my chance."

Barnett has already scored his first goal in an Orient shirt. The youngster netted the first goal in a 3-0 win over Dawlish during the East Enders' recent tour of Devon.

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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