SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was unable to call upon top scorer Harry Cardwell against Wealdstone due to a hamstring issue.

Cardwell was replaced by Marcus Dackers in the starting line-up for the 1-1 draw at Roots Hall.

And Maher felt it would have been too much of a risk to keep Cardwell in the side.

“He had a bit of fatigue in his hamstring and some tightness too after the weekend,” said Maher.

“He’s full throttle with how he plays and we couldn’t take that risk when we’ve got other forwards.

“It was their opportunity for them to go and take.

“Harry is our top scorer, he leads the line for us and is our talisman if you want but we just couldn’t risk him.

“We want someone to grab it with both hands and take their chance.”