HULLBRIDGE Sports boss Darren Manning has hailed the impact Southend United full-back Ben Coker has made to his defence.

Coker, who made his 200th appearance for the Shrimpers in the defeat at Shrewsbury Town last weekend, recently passed on some coaching tips at a Sports training session.

And Manning admits Coker’s help could prove invaluable.

Manning said: “Ben has only been in for one session so far, but he will be coming to help with training more regularly.

“We have already seen some changes to the defence following that session and we thank him for coming in.

“I played with Ben in a charity game in the summer. He told me he had done his UEFA B coaching badge and needed to do more coaching, so I offered the chance for him to come and do sessions with us.

“He is able to pass on so many tips and he has got so much experience.

“I’m still young and learning so hearing his stories and what he has done under his managers is great for me as well as the players.”

Hullbridge have made an impressive start to the campaign and currently sit top of the Essex Senior League.

And Sports maintained their fine form by advancing in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Cup with a 3-2 win at Saffron Walden Town.

Perry Dunn was on target and Luke Hornsley notched a brace of goals, leaving Manning delighted.

The Hullbridge chief added: “We had six debutants and lots of youngsters playing, whereas Saffron Walden played a strong side that had nine players who played in the FA Vase at the weekend.

“We were the better team and we have so much strength in depth. It shows how much progress we have made.”