SOUTHEND United goalkeeper Paul Smith is seeking another clean sheet against Torquay tomorrow.

The Blues shot-stopper has secured five shout outs in his last eight outings.

And he is hoping for more of the season against the Gulls this weekend.

“We’ve defended well in our last few matches and hopefully we can do the same this weekend,” said Smith, 32.

“I actually felt as though we had been defending well as a team all season but just recently we’ve been getting the clean sheets to show for it and that’s been great.

“The manager and his assistant, Graham Coughlan, have been going through things with us in training which has helped and having a more settled back four has also been a huge advantage.

“Getting clean sheets as a keeper is always nice and now we want to go and get a few more, hopefully starting with the game at Torquay tomorrow.”

But the game against the Gulls could well prove to be a tough test for Smith and his Southend side.

Martin Ling’s men have yet to be beaten at home in the league season and have also netted 17 goals in their eight outings at Plainmoor.

That ranks them third in the highest scorers at home in League Two.

However, Smith is the relishing the chance to try and keep them quiet.

“Port Vale had a scoring record and we managed to keep them out so hopefully we can do the same against Torquay, said Smith who joined Blues on a free transfer before the start of the season.

“It’s good to play against the top teams and players though and we have a bit of momentum behind us now too so we’re really looking to the game.”