ESSEX Pirates began their pre-season schedule with a 94-62 defeat at home to the Mersey Tigers on Saturday night.

But head coach Tim Lewis was not too downbeat. The match at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre was played to raise money for the Mayor of Southend – councillor Ann Holland’s – chosen charities.

And Lewis is certain the clash will stand his side in good stead ahead of the start of the new season.

“This game gets us underway and I’m not too disappointed about it,” stressed Lewis.

“We were missing five players and when they’re back I think we will be stronger and more balanced than last year.

“We hadn’t even trained together before playing Tigers so we knew it would be tough but there were some good signs, especially from Andre Ellis who we could well look to try and sign now.”

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO