Hornchurch manager Daryl McMahon believes a 2-0 pre-season win at Brentwood Town will serve as a positive ahead of their 2025/26 National League South campaign.

First-half strikes from Charlie Ruff and Joe Taylor in the scorching heat were enough to secure a third consecutive pre-season victory for the Urchins.

And it left McMahon feeling increasingly upbeat about his side’s prospects going into the new season.

He said: “I thought it was a good workout for us. It was a tough game. It was obviously very hot. The pitch was a bit slow and sticky. I thought it made the game a little bit slower than we would've wanted it.

“But in terms of the fitness element with the guys in the heat as well, it really worked well. No injuries again, which is really positive.

"The three games we’ve had so far have given us the ability to go and watch every one of our new signings, for new partnerships in units as well. So, it’s been really positive.”

Urchins began pre-season with a 3-0 win at Isthmian North side Gorleston, followed by success over Sittingbourne.

And beating Brentwood for a third successive victory has given McMahon reason for optimism.

He added: “We’ve played some decent football. Obviously, there are bits we need to work on. We’ve got loads to work on, but I’m pleased with where the team’s at fitness-wise, which is the most important thing as part of pre-season.

"We’re making sure the team’s got a good base level to build on in terms of physically.

“When we look at the next few weeks, we’re talking about our tactics we need to get into our game, but I’m pleased where they’re at.

"I’m pleased with the new signings that have settled in as well really quickly. It helped we had the stay-away in Norwich, which was very crucial for us as a group. But it’s good so far. I’m pleased.”

After a midweek trip to Essex Senior League side Romford, Boro visit Redbridge on Saturday and Julian Dicks' Heybridge Swifts on July 26.

Brentwood, meanwhile, are due to face Grays Athletic this weekend.

n Dagenham & Redbridge have signed former West Ham United and England striker Andy Carroll on a three-year deal.

An agreement between American owners Club Underdog and a consortium of Qatari investors for acquisition of the club has also been announced.

This move will see former captain Anwar Uddin MBE will return as a non-executive director.

Completion of the transaction remains subject to legal finalisation and approvals from the FA and the National League.