The Old Boys return to competitive action with a 4-2 defeat to Canvey Island in a well-fought fixture.

Having had a break of about six weeks the 'Chelsea Old Boys' were back playing again with a match at Canvey Island. The squad was down on numbers as many were away enjoying the sun; pre-season goes on longer once you have retired.

Dressed in the 'new kit', some had a tighter fit than others. Questions of 'Is this the same size as I used to have' rang around the changing room.

It was good to see many of the lads in 'peak condition' for this encounter which included plenty of ex-Southend and Canvey players who train together, as a team, on a regular basis. Also included in the squad for Canvey was ex-England manager Peter Taylor who at 56 looked remarkably fit.

The first half was an exciting encounter as both sides looked for the opening goal. Chelsea's possession was as good as ever as they tried to blow the cobwebs away. Some found it easier than others as Darren Barnard, Garry Stanley and Dave Lee could have all given the Blues an early lead.

It was, however, the younger side who took the first half with goals from Simon Liddle and John Kennedy with no reply from the lads. At times it was tough for the Blues as Canvey used a roll-on roll-off system for subs and with only two subs available for the Old Boys, it was tough to keep going until the break.

The half time banter was excellent as ever with players all struggling for much needed oxygen while talking and laughing all at the same time. Light refreshments brought in to quench the thirst were a welcome sight on a warm but slightly overcast day.

The second half started quickly for the Chelsea Old Boys, gaps were beginning to appear in the ageing Canvey defence and good work from midfield helped to push Dave Lee forward.

Assisted by his on-pitch partner Gareth Hall they managed to set up Darren Barnard for the first Chelsea goal, a rare header; must have been the fluid taken on board at half time.

The boys threw everything into getting on level terms in front of a very appreciative 800 strong crowd but it was Canvey who increased their lead with two goals from Steve Parmenter and Jeff Brazier.

All was not finished for the lads with a late breakaway goal from a Canvey corner. Darren Barnard played the ball through for Clive Walker to run on to and slot past the keeper

The day was a huge success, with a good crowd and entertaining football. It was great to see Chelsea's Football in the Community there running training sessions for local children as well.

Who knows, we may even see some of them joining the club one day.

By Clive Walker