SOUTHEND'S White Ensign remain favourites, but see their Premier Division title hopes hanging in the balance after a shock 1-0 defeat at mid-table Benfleet.

Ensign, who lead with 48 points and two games to go, visit Bishop's Stortford Swifts next Saturday (1.45pm).

But the outcome could rest on the last match of the season when Ensign host Takeley at Eastwood-bury Lane on Tuesday May 13.

Takeley boosted their goal difference with an 11-1 win at bottom club Shell Club Corringham on Saturday and currently trail Ensign by 10 points with three games in hand.