SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher insists the Shrimpers will be ready for tomorrow’s clash at Hartlepool -despite their busy schedule.

Blues head to Victoria Park having played eight games in the space of 24 days while postponements have seen their hosts without a fixture for the past fortnight.

But Maher is not sure how the contrasting schedules will affect the two sides.

“There’s just no telling,” said Maher.

“Sometimes playing regularly when you’re in decent form helps.

“When you haven’t played you’re not sure how it will go but we’ll be focusing on ourselves.

“We’ll look at how many games we’ve had but we’ll be ready.”

Blues go into the game sitting 10th in the National League standings, three points and two places higher than their hosts who have a game in hand.

And Maher knows Kevin Phillips’ side will be tricky to beat.

“It’s always a tough test there and they’ve had a change of manager too,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“We know we will have to perform well to get the result we want.

“It’s one of the longest journeys we’ve got after a busy period as well but we want to finish this period off as strongly as possible.”

The Shrimpers will also be making the long trip north unbeaten in their last eight games.

Maher’s side saw off Dorking Wanderers 2-0 on Tuesday night and the 47-year-old is pleased with the recent run of form.

“It was good to get the clean sheet and three points against Dorking,” said Maher.

“We’ve played better in games but I was pleased with everyone.

“But we want to keep building and get points on board.

“We’ve got eight games left so let’s see what we can go and do.”