SOUTHEND United continue their pre-season preparations with a trip to Canvey Island tonight.

Blues started their warm up fixtures with a 4-0 win at Kings Langley on Saturday.

And Shrimpers boss Kevin Maher is looking forward to another outing, this time against familiar opposition.

“It’s a fixture I think we’ve always had in pre-season and we’ve been there a number of times down the years,” said Maher.

“I remember the FA Cup game we had there too and it’s a club that’s well known to us through Mark Bentley as well who was obviously manager there.

“He speaks very well of them and how well prepared they will already have the pitch so it will be a good test for us because they’re a decent side.”

Canvey won promotion via the Isthmian North play-offs last season, beating Brentwood Town on penalties in the final at Park Lane.

And Maher could look to give his players more minutes against the Gulls having given them 45 minutes in their opening encounter on Saturday.

“Stef has done our sport science for the whole of pre-season so there’s a plan in place,” said the Blues boss.

“There might be a few more minutes for a group of them tonight and then it will be similar on Saturday when we go to Kettering.

“We know where we’re going with it all.”

But Maher will be taking no risks.

“We will need to make checks on a couple of them who are a bit bruised and it’s been a hard 10 days or so,” said Maher.

“There are a few sore bodies like you would expect and hopefully everyone will be OK to play but if they’re not we won’t be risking them.

“Fingers crossed everyone be alright and it’s all been very positive so far.

“We’re delighted with everyone and the squad has mixed well together too.

However, Maher is still keen to bolster his options.

“We’re still trying to work on one or two things but the main focus is making sure we’re ready for August 6th,” said Maher.

“We’re obviously all working towards that first game and I’m sure the players are enjoying having the friendlies now.”

Tonight’s match kicks off at 7.30pm with ticket prices set at £10 adults, £6 concessions and £2 for under 16s who are accompanied by an adult.

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