EAST Thurrock United manager John Coventry says he is pleased at his side’s pre-season preparations after they defeated Canvey Island 4-2 on Tuesday evening.

Max Cornhill scored in either half, with Femi Akinwande and Harry Honesty also on target for the away side.

Cornhill particularly impressed in central midfield, alongside James White as Rocks made it two wins from two in pre-season.

And Coventry said it was a good exercise for his players, against a dogged Canvey team “It was definitely a worthy exercise,” he said.

“I get on well with Danny (Heale) and Joe (Keith) at Canvey and it is more minutes in the tank for the players.

“Max was excellent. He has a lot to prove after leaving Chelmsford as he felt he should have been in their side. And he did very well.

“We were very light in some areas,” he added.

“I can’t use Lewis Smith (banned), Kye Ruel and Simon Peddie were working and George Allen was ruled out through injury, although he will return on Saturday (against Colchester United).

“We are still light in a few areas as well, with Ben Marlow currently still with Queens Park Rangers.

“I am gutted he is not here as he would have fitted in well with this team.”

Coventry added the physicality of his team impressed him.

“We looked strong and it is different to years past. Aerially we didn’t struggle in the middle and that bodes well going forwards.