The Five Nations series has helped decimate the south Essex rugby scene this weekend - with two interesting exceptions.

Essex Cup finalists Rochford visit long-standing rivals Westcliff in a friendly tomorrow, while newly-crowed Eastern Counties Two champions Billericay could host highly-placed Old Cooperians.

Westcliff's Roger Glithero returns for the unavailable Mark Gibbs at outside-half against a Rochford side trying out some of their most promising second-teamers.

The club's director of rugby, Darren Morrant, said: "There's always something a bit extra about a fairly local derby. We hope our pack can get on top, but we Rochford are a good side."

Rochford spokeswoman Rose-mary Daly said: "After the intensity of the past few weeks' crucial league games, it's a welcome opportunity to rest certain players, with some regular first-teamers injured or unavailable."

Kick-off is at 1.30pm, as clubs enable their players to watch the Ireland v England game later on.

Billericay hope to face EC2's possible runners-up Cooperians in a re-arranged game, but spokesman Gary Smith stressed: "We want to make sure our pitch is all right for Saturday week against Scarborough in the Tetley's Vase semi-final."

Forward foursome Paul Daly (skipper), Richard Holdgate, Wayne Hallett and John Bailey return for Billericay (1.30pm), along with back John Stephens.

Among the sides without a game are the area's two senior sides - Thurrock, who receive a bye into the Eastern Counties cup semi-finals after Braintree pulled out, and Southend.

Thurrock spokesman Kevin Hymas said: "Braintree said they weren't able to pick a forward line. It's nice to get into the last four, with a place in the Tetley's Cup at stake, but we've got mixed feelings about going through without playing."

Southend's B side host Burnham, while the club's veterans are also at Warner's Bridge, against their Braintree rivals.

Injury-hit Canvey visit Romford in a friendly at noon. They field a couple of under-18s, with Nicky Prince, Jason Carter, Matt Norris, and Alan Berry out. Cap-tain Steve Murray is nearly fit.

Basildon are hoping to set up a friendly for tomorrow.

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