DANNY Cleare believes Southend are capable of securing a shock victory at Hartpury College this weekend.

The Gloucestershire club are again expected to be pushing for promotion from National Two South this season.

But Cleare insists the Seasiders have nothing to fear against them tomorrow and is certain his team are capable of coming out on top.

“Hartpury are a very good side but they’ve lost twice already this season, so I think we could go there and get a scalp,” said Cleare, 26.

“It’s obviously going to be very difficult because they’re very strong and they’re normally right up towards the top of the table.

“But we’ve won three of our four matches so far this season so our confidence is high and we’re looking forward to testing ourselves against them.”

Southend’s latest success came against Canterbury last Saturday as they triumphed 43-27 at Warners Bridge.

The game also saw Cleare get his first try of the season and he was thrilled to have got off the mark.

“It’s always nice to score tries and hopefully I can start to get a few more now,” said Cleare.

“But it’s all about the team and we have a new ethos here this season which everyone is buying in too.

“It’s all about working hard, making your tackles and giving everything you have at all times – which is what I think we’re doing.

“We’ve got some new recruits which have also helped and I think we’ve all been encouraged by the start we’ve made.”

Southend have already won as many matches as they had done by Christmas last season and they currently sit third in the table.

Hartpury are in fifth having won two and lost two of their opening four games.

They lost 21-18 at Launceston last weekend but, as Southend bid to pile more misery on their hosts, they are likely to be missing new star signing Karl Pryce who is doubtful with the knee injury he suffered on his debut against Canterbury.